You’ll get the sand beneath your toes and the slides they love so much
San Diego is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country, so it makes sense that they would also have some of finest beachside parks too. These picturesque play spots deliver serene coastal views, cool ocean breezes, and maybe even some whale or dolphin spotting if you’re lucky. We’ve rounded up seven of our favorite beachside parks perfect for your next play date hang.
Right near the boardwalk in the heart of La Jolla Shores, you’ll find beautiful Kellogg Park. With a large grassy area that’s perfect for a game of frisbee or an afternoon picnic, as well as a top-notch playground, it’s one of our absolute must-dos in the city. The “Respect the Ocean” themed playground features a rubber surface system offering more support for tiny feet. There are also tons of swings and interesting structures to climb. During your visit, make sure to check out the life-size bronze statue of a baby gray whale that’s a perfect size for little explorers to climb. The family-friendly space has plenty of restrooms and showers if you fancy dipping your feet into the ocean, and the parking lot is open until 10 p.m.
Insider’s Tip: This park gets busy on weekends so make sure to arrive early if you want to claim some prime picnic space on the grass. Also, one block away on Avenida de la Playa, families can find a variety of cafés, shops, and sports rentals, as well as the Birch Aquarium just up the hill.
Kellogg Park
8200 Camino Del Oro
La Jolla
Fletcher Cove Park Perched high above the Pacific in Solana Beach, popular Fletcher Cover Park reopened its playground this summer after a $400,000 refurbishment. Improvements to the playground include a new shaded structure to keep kiddos cool, a blue rubberized surface with a whimsical whale design, as well as new play equipment like a slide, monkey bars, swing set, ADA-accessible disc net climber, and stationary boogie board. The playground was purposely designed to accommodate a wider range of age groups and features new activities like a mini clubhouse and sensory panels for the under-5 set. If you have a basketball player in the family, they’ll also dig the new half-court that’s been completely resurfaced and leveled up with a new hoop and backboard. There are also restroom facilities on site, a free parking lot, and plenty of street parking.
Fletcher Cove Park
111 S. Sierra Ave.
Solana Beach
Tidelands Park With scenic views of San Diego Bay and the Coronado Bridge, Tidelands Park has 22 acres of amenities to keep littles entertained all day long. There is an inclusive playground designed for kids of all abilities, four baseball fields, exercise stations, a fishing pier, picnic areas, paths for rollerblading, breathtaking art installations, and a bike strand that extends from Silver Strand to Old Ferry Landing. Plus, there is a small sandy beach if kiddos get the itch to create a sandcastle masterpiece. Facilities are plenty as well with a large parking lot and plenty of restrooms.
Insider’s Tip: If you take follow the bike path to Old Ferry Landing, you can grab a bite to eat at one of many restaurants in the area or catch the ferry to San Diego—bring your bike aboard for no extra charge!
Tidelands Park
2000 Mullinex Dr.
Coronado
Powerhouse Park If you’re looking for stunning views of the sea and updated playground equipment, Powerhouse Park should be on your list. Recently renovated, the park features an ocean-themed playground with instruments to bang on, plenty of swings, a great climbing structure, and a sand play area. There’s also plenty of grass for a rousing game of tag and some swell walking trails to explore. And the cherry on top is not only is there a beautiful view of the ocean, but kiddos get an amazing view of the train whenever it passes by. Win-win!
Insider’s Tip: Mornings are best to avoid the crowds and be sure to bring an extra change of clothes and a towel since kids will get messy playing in the sand. Also, pay attention to street parking signs—some spots are free for two hours, but there are metered spots available as well.
Powerhouse Park
1658 Coast Blvd.
Del Mar
Port of San Diego
Spanish Landing Park Spanish Landing Park gives families a dose of San Diego history along with beautiful views the marina. This very spot held the meeting of the 1769 Gaspar DePortola and Father Junípero Serra expeditions. So after you’ve Googled all of that and impressed the fam with your knowledge, you all can enjoy the groovy playground on the west side of the park, a sandy beach, interesting art displays, and plenty of picnic tables for a delightful afternoon meal together.
Spanish Landing Park
3900 N. Harbor Dr.
San Diego
Moonlight Beach
Located in a magical part of Encinitas right on the ocean is Moonlight Beach. This family-friendly beach has waves that are perfect for surfing and boogie boarding, as well as a great beach-themed (and shaded) playground just steps from the sand. The bright blue and gold structure features a climbable surfboard, slides and tons of other fun nooks and crannies to explore. Next to the playground is a large grassy area that has picnic tables when your hungry brood is ready for a snack.
Moonlight Beach
400 B. St.
Encinitas
Tyson Street Park Easy walking distance from the pier, Tyson Street Park features a playground that’s just about as close to the water as you can be without getting wet. There’s a jungle gym with views of the Pacific, a large grassy area to run and play, and lots of picnic tables and restrooms. If your kiddos are begging to take a dip after they check out the playground, the summer months are a great time to do it since they close the water to surfers during the season, making it ideal for swimmers and waders.
Insider’s Tip: The park and beach are accessible via the stairs on Pacific St. where there is plentiful metered parking.
Food tours, live jazz, swamp excursions, and beignets on every corner
While many make their way to New Orleans for the annual Mardi Gras festivities or nights on Bourbon Street, I recently spent an extended weekend exploring the French Quarter and beyond with my tween and found it to be a great option for families. The food scene cannot be beat and there’s so much to do from a newly renovated aquarium to nearby swamp tours to live jazz performances. We’ve planned your trip for you so follow along and get ready to make your way to NOLA!
Things to Do in New Orleans with Kids
1. Visit the newly renovated Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium.
Plan to spend a few hours visiting these spots located right along the Mississippi River. They recently reopened after undergoing extensive renovations and kids will get a kick out of the Audubon Aquarium’s touch pool where they can get up close to sting rays. The African penguins are just the entertainment you need to keep the kids engaged. Discover the wetlands of the bayou and find out what animals make it their home.
Then head next door to the Audubon Insectarium where all the creepy, crawly creatures are on display. Touch stations welcome the brave to learn about beetles, larvae, and more. Our favorite spot was Bug Appétit where you can try out ranch or barbecue-flavored crickets along with other bug treats. The immersive butterfly garden was a real treat with these gorgeous creatures surrounding you as you walk through the exhibit.
2. Immerse yourself in art at JAMNOLA.
There’s so much art on display in New Orleans from street art covering the buildings to artists selling their creations around Jackson Square. JAMNOLAcelebrates this creative spirit by immersing you in 17 art exhibits where you can see how a Gatorade bottle can be turned into a lamp and so much more. Kids will love climbing inside a crab pot to be cooked along with the crawdads and then checking out their reflection in the mirrored wallpaper.
After your JAMNOLA visit, walk around this neighborhood to check out the street art that adorns the buildings. We loved the nearbyBywater Brew Pub for its casual atmosphere, delicious eats, and beer selection.
3. View the city from above at Vue Orleans.
Right along the waterfront is this fun, immersive activity that your whole family will enjoy. Vue Orleans gives you a taste of New Orleans history through interactive exhibits and then sends you up to the top floor for a 360-degree view of the city down below. Kids will love trying their luck at navigating a barge through the Mississippi River in the interactive game and you can snap some great pics from the indoor and outdoor levels.
Not to be missed, this museum offers a multimedia look into World War II with a huge amount of artifacts and personal stories to lead the way. Kids will be amazed to stand next to tanks and view WWII airplanes from below. Be sure to get tickets for the Beyond All Boundaries 4D experience that brings personal accounts of the war to life. Kids will also enjoy The Walt Disney Studios and World War II exhibit.
5. Take in a live jazz performance at Preservation Hall.
This was our favorite activity of all when we visited New Orleans and you need to make sure you get tickets while you are there. Even those who are not necessarily jazz aficionados will enjoy listening to a traditional New Orleans jazz performance in this ultra-small venue that has been open since 1961. Shows last 45 minutes and you can even meet some of the musicians after the show!
6. Taste Creole and Cajun classics on a food tour with Tastebud Tours.
A great way to learn a little history about an area and taste some delicious eats along the way is on a food tour. We loved our Tastebuds walking tour of New Orleans where we got to learn about the history of the po’boy (and try one) as well as the correct way to pronounce “pralines.” We got tastes of muffuletta, jambalaya, gumbo, and pralines along with lots of walking through the French Quarter.
7. Visit The Presbytère to learn how the area was impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
On Jackson Square in the French Quarter, you’ll find this state museum where you can pop in and learn about Louisianna’s history. Permanent exhibits focus on Hurricane Katrina and Mardi Gras and kids will love the interactive portions.
Even if you visit New Orleans in the off-season, you can get a taste of Mardi Gras by visiting this massive warehouse with in-progress parade floats, previously exhibited floats, and a short video that shares the history of the event. You’ll even get a sample of king cake!
9. Ride the streetcars up Canal Street.
The too cute streetcars that make their way through New Orleans are a bit of history that you’ll definitely want to check out while you are in town. Snag a “Jazzy Pass” if you think you’ll be riding a lot as it will give you a full day (or more) of unlimited travel. Bonus: there are discounts for kids!
Head out of the city for this half-day excursion that will show you all the wetlands that make up the area around New Orleans. An airboat is the best way to see alligators and other critters that live in the swamps as you get to zip through canals. You can also opt for a pontoon boat tour if you prefer a slower-speed adventure. Your tour includes bus transportation along with the boat ride.
Head to the 1850 House in Jackson Square. You can walk through this home to see upper-middle-class life in antebellum New Orleans, the most prosperous period in the city’s history.
12. Learn about New Orleans’ ghostly past on a ghost tour.
A great way to learn about the city’s spooky history is to head out on a ghost tour. These will take you through the French Quarter and you’ll learn about the ghastly events that have taken place and the spirits that remain to this day. These tours are typically kid-friendly but ask in advance!
13. Spend the afternoon at Sea Cave, the dive bar arcade of your dreams.
If you are looking for a break from all the walking and a spot everyone will enjoy, head to Sea Cave. This underwater-themed bar offers all-you-can-play arcade games and kids are welcome with parents until 6 p.m. They have snacks available and beers on taps—perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Favorite Spots to Eat in New Orleans with Kids
The food scene in New Orleans can’t be beat and you’ll want to spend some time trying local favorites like jambalaya, crawfish etouffee, po’boys, and red beans and rice.
Top Spots in New Orleans for Breakfast
You’ll find beignet spots on just about every corner in New Orleans and we recommend you get at least one beignet a day. A stop at Cafe du Monde is a requirement and the Jackson Square location often has musicians playing outside for a lively vibe. If the line is too long, there are other locations to choose from not too far away. Just down the street is Cafe Beignetwhere you can order from the bar in addition to getting your fill of powdered sugar-topped beignets.
If you’re looking for the full brunch experience, make your way to one of the Ruby Slipper Cafe locations. The menu is full of sweet and savory choices with a half dozen Eggs Benedict options to choose from. The NOLA-style iced coffee will get your day going on the right foot and the pig candy bacon bites are not to be missed!
Near the French market, you’ll find French Toast, a lovely spot for crepes, breakfast sandwiches, and French toast (of course). Go for the aebelskivers if you are looking for a pancake of a different sort—served with your choice of toppings including Nutella and lemon curd.
Top Spots in New Orleans for Lunch and Dinner
For Cajun and southern favorites with a relaxed upscale vibe, head to Cochon. Focusing on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, you’ll want to order a bunch of items for sharing. We had to try the fried alligator with chili garlic mayo (delicious!) as well as the house boucherie selection (also perfection!). Both were a hit with the adult and kid contingent.
Before your night at Preservation Hall, book a table at Tableau, located just down the street. It takes up space in the heart of the French Quarter, right on Jackson Square, and has an elegant and welcoming ambiance. Best for families with older kids, Tableau offers regional favorites like shrimp and grits, duck and andouille gumbo, and turtle soup.
NOLA Poboys serves up these traditional sandwiches in many variations from hot roast beef with gravy to fried shrimp. They are open late and located right on Bourbon Street.
New Orleans Creole Cookery is the spot when you are craving Creole favorites like jambalaya. Go for the Taste of New Orleans and you’ll get jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, shrimp creole, and red beans & rice.
Best Spot for Pralines
You can find “New Orleans’ Best Pralines” advertised on just about every street corner but we recommend you head to Laura’s Candies to try out this special treat. Here you’ll be able to try a number of different types of creamy pralines, fudge, fruit jelly slices, and more.
Where to Stay in New Orleans with Kids
The Westin New Orleans is perfectly located for all your New Orleans adventures. Get a room with a river view and you’ll be able to watch the comings and goings of the steamboats and streetcars. You’ll be within walking distance of the French Quarter and just steps away from the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium. We found the rooms to be spacious and the staff super helpful at providing directions or recommendations. The location worked well because it was easy to get to everything in the French Quarter but you were away from the loud nightlife.
Visit the New Orleans & Company website for more information on what to do when visiting New Orleans, activities happening while you are there, new openings, and more.
Where to see the practice sessions, the best parks for viewing the action, and how to get there by public transit
Held at Genesee Park, Seafair has been a Seattle tradition since 1951, and for many families, it’s one of the “can’t-miss” events of the summer. While adults are impressed with what the high-flying acrobats can do in the sky, kids are flat-out amazed. But the event isn’t just about what’s happening in the sky. It’s a special time when hydroplanes and classic cars are celebrated too. Of course, the show’s biggest stars are the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. They have performed at Seafair for over 40 years! Want to get in on this Top Gun action? Below you’ll find the general scoop on the three-day weekend in addition to information on the best places to watch the Blue Angels at Seafair this year.
Can’t-Miss Weekend Activities at Seafair 2023
Seafair / U.S. Navy Blue Angels
Boeing Seafair Air Show
The Boeing Seafair Air Show runs Friday, August 4 through Sunday, August 6, 2023, and it’s where you can catch the amazing flying aerobatics of the best of the best pilots. This year’s lineup includes US Navy Blue Angels (including Fat Albert C-130), the US Navy EA-18G Growlers (from Naval Air Station Whidbey), B-17 “Sentimental Journey”, B-25 “Made in the Shade”, US Army’s Golden Knights, US Army Helicopters, PBY-5A Catalina Seaplane, and US Coast Guard MH65 Search and Rescue.
The air show also includes displays by civilian pilots, vintage aircraft, and parachute demonstrations. It is said that Brad Wursten will be pushing the envelope of one of the most advanced aircraft in the world during his “Power Addiction Air Show” all three days.
As with past years, the Blue Angels have a flight plan for practices over Lake Washington so the I-90 Bridge and Seward Park will remain open.
Seafair
HomeStreet Bank Cup
The HomeStreet Bank Cup is a H1 Unlimited Hydroplane Boat Race where the hydroplanes up to 220 MPH! Not only is this race an integral part of Seafair, but it’s also the third oldest H1 unlimited race site. This year they are celebrating 70 years with Seafair.
Seafair Classic Car Show
Up to 100 classic vehicles will be on display on the shores of Lake Washington for the Seafair Classic Car Show on Sat. and Sun. Come see vintage antique cars from the 1920s and 1930s, modified classic cars, custom classic cars, and classic foreign cars along Thunder Alley.
Museum of Flight Jet Blast Bash
The Museum of Flight’s Annual Jet Blast Bash is a two-day event that offers families the closest views of the Blue Angel show as the planes park and take off from the Museum. Held on Aug. 5 and 6, 2023 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., the Museum of Flight will be chock-full of outdoor family activities, plane displays, live music, food, and even a beer garden for moms, dads, and other caregivers. All activities are free with Museum admission. There will be some free parking onsite, but it will be limited so they recommend taking public transit.
Seafair Weekend Schedules
Chief Petty Officer Michael Russell/US Navy Blue Angels
Boeing Airshow Schedule
Friday:
11:10 – US Army Gold Knights
1:05 – US Navy EA18 – Growlers
1:35 p.m. – US Air Force C-17
1:50 p.m. – PBY – Catalina
2:05 p.m. – Brad Wursten – MXS-R
2:25 p.m. – US Army Helos
2:45 p.m. – B-17 Sentimental Journey
2:55 p.m. – B-25 Made in the Shade
3:05 p.m. – US Coast Guard – MHJ65 Search and Rescue
3:20 p.m. – US Navy Blue Angels – Fat Albert C-130
3:30 p.m. – US Navy Blue Angels
Saturday 10:50 a.m. – US Coast Guard – MH65 Search and Rescue
11:05 a.m. – PBY – Catalina
11:45 a.m. – US Army Golden Knights
1:05 p.m. – US Navy EA18 – Growler
1:35 p.m. – US Air Force C-17
1:50 p.m. – Brad Wursten – MXS-R
2:50 p.m. – B-17 Sentimental Journey
3:00 p.m. – B-25 Made in the Shade
3:10 p.m. – US Army Helos
3:20 p.m. – US Navy Blue Angels – Fat Albert C-130
3:30 p.m. – US Navy Blue Angels
Sunday
10:30 a.m. – Opening Ceremony
10:35 a.m. – US Coast Guard – MH65 Search and Rescue
10:45 a.m. – US Army Helos
11:55 a.m. – US Army Golden Knights
1:05 p.m. – US Navey EA18 Growlers
1:50 p.m. – PBY Catalina
2:10 p.m. – Brad Wursten – MXS-R
2:55 p.m. – B-17 Sentimental Journey
3:05 p.m. – B-25 Made in the Shade
3:15 p.m. – Boeing 737-9 Flyover
3:20 p.m. – Blue Angels – Fat Ablert C-130
3:30 p.m. – Blue Angels
Sunday:
9 a.m. – H1 Testing
10:05 a.m. – J Hydro Final
10:30 a.m. – Opening Ceremony
11:10 a.m. – H1 Heat 3A Start
11:25 a.m. – H1 Heat 3B Start
11:35 a.m. – Vintage Hydroplanes
12:40 p.m. – H1 Heat 4A Start
12:55 p.m. – HT Heat 4B Start
2:35 p.m. – Home Street Bank Cup Final and Gold Cup Race
4:35 p.m – Home Street Bank Cup and Gold Cup Awards Ceremony
Petty Officer 2nd Class Cody Deccio
Going to the Races
What to Bring
Be sure to lather on the sunscreen and bring lots of water and some extra cash as many of the beaches will have tasty treats to purchase. Your wingmen will enjoy the show best if you gear them up with some ear protection, especially if they can sport some cool earmuffs like the ones the pilots wear.
The Best Way to Get There
Genesee Park on Lake Washington will be your best bet for a front-row seat for both the air show and hydroplane extravaganza. However, getting there by car is no picnic, and finding parking will be that much harder. There is some general parking available for $50 (which you can purchase ahead of time) and limited paid ADA parking. Instead, we suggest you take advantage of buses and link light rail for your transportation needs. In any case, here are your options:
Sound Transit Link Light Rail
Get free round-trip shuttle service from Columbia Center Station from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sound Transit schedules and rates can be found online.
Metro Transit Buses Metro Bus Route 50 will be operating a standard schedule with stops at Genesee Park & Columbia City Station. This route will operate every 15 minutes from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Seafair Saturday and Sunday. Military members and their families will receive free rides by showing military ID.
ADA Parking
Limited paid ADA event parking will be available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis. A state-issued, accessible placard is required for access.
Genesee Park on Lake Washington is the official location and will be your best bet for a front-row seat to the Air Show extravaganza, hydroplane hoopla, and a lot more. The park is located at 4316 South Genesee Street.
Tickets
Best Deal
General admission on Fri., Aug. 4 is FREE for everyone!
General Admission
1- Day Pass (Sat. & Sun.): $40 (adults) and $15 (Children 6-12 and Senior 62+)
3-Day Championship Pass: $85 includes Pit Pass
Grandstand Seating: $45 – $95
Captain’s Club Seating: $150 – $450
Active and Retired Military Families
In appreciation for their service, all service members will receive free admission with military I.D. Military family members get in for $20.
Seafair
Other Places to See the Air Show
Mount Baker Park Located just two miles away from the Seafair epicenter, this beach park is the perfect spot to picnic while you watch in awe as the team displays the amazing agility and speed of the F/A-18 Hornet, performing a flurry of stunts that loop, roll, and turn through the sky. The small, well-groomed space has plenty of entertainment to keep those jet-heads busy while you wait for the show, including a life-guarded beach complete with a roped-off kiddie area, a cozy grass lawn perfect for a picnic, plus a small playground with a sturdy zip-line for small fries to attempt their own daredevil maneuvers on.
Insider Tip: Be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds and spend some time exploring the park before the show. Parking is limited, so consider using public transportation or venturing the neighborhoods on the hill above the lake.
Colman Park Located adjacent to Mount Baker Park, this lush, grassy waterfront area offers an amazing view of Lake Washington and a stellar place to picnic with the crew while you do some plane-watching. Spend some time wandering the walking trails, community garden and score some ice cream before the show.
Colman Park
1800 Lake Washington Blvd. S.
Seattle
Online: seattle.gov/parks
Pritchard Island Beach Tucked quietly away in the Rainier Beach area of Lake Washington is a little grassy beach that boasts of panoramic views of Seward Park and Mercer Island. Here kids can splash around in the water, cannonball from the low or high diving boards and enjoy the show away from the noise and glitz of the big festivities.
Pritchard Island Beach
8400 55th Ave. S.
Seattle
Online: seattle.gov/parks
Aubrey Davis Park – Mercer Island Formerly called Park on the Lid, this huge green space, located just off of the I-90 bridge, offers an abundance of room to watch a stellar show with spectacular views of Lake Washington, the Olympics, and Seattle’s skyline as the backdrop. The park also offers two softball fields, two playgrounds, and trails throughout the park, giving everyone plenty of room to run around, throw a Frisbee, or park for a bite to eat.
Aubrey Davis Park
2030 72nd Ave. S.E.
Mercer Island
Online: mercergov.org
Groveland Beach Park Beach – Mercer Island This hidden gem is located in a residential neighborhood on the west shore of Mercer Island and offers a guarded, sandy beach and playground to hang with your flight crew during the show. Keep in mind that you will have to walk down a steep, paved path to get to the beach. Although not a direct vantage point for the demonstration, this area does offer a less crowded alternative for plane gazing.
Groveland Park
7740 S.E. 58th St.
Mercer Island
Online: mercergov.org
Medina Beach Park Keep ‘em cool at this gorgeous lakefront park with a sweet panorama of Lake Washington with Seattle, plus Mount Rainier in the background. Bring along those shovels and buckets and let the kids play in the sand, or splash around in the water while scoring one of the best views around for watching the Blues.
Medina Beach Park
501 Evergreen Point Rd.
Medina
Online: medina-wa.gov
Chief Petty Officer Michael Russell/US Navy Blue Angels
Chism Beach Park It will be planes galore at this scenic Bellevue neighborhood park with its lakefront sandy beach, and sloping grass lawn, and the perfect place for your crew to convene for an afternoon airshow. With its play structure built right on the beach, tots can easily maneuver from water play to playground, to sand digging without missing a moment of all the high-flying action.
Meydenbauer Bay Park
Nearly walking distance from downtown Bellevue, this newly remodeled beach park will give you enough of a view, and plenty of activities to keep the chitlins busy both before and after the show. Take advantage of the quarter-mile of Lake Washington waterfront, beautiful swimming beach and swimming platform, plus a 400-foot-long curved pedestrian pier that extends into the lake, a hand-carry boat launch, paved walkways, picnic areas, and a fantastic playground. The park also features a hilltop overlook with gorgeous views of Seattle, a new beach house with restrooms, changing rooms, and boat rentals (think: canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards), as well as a lifeguard station.
Meydenbauer Bay Park
419 98th Ave. N.E.
Bellevue
Online: bellevuewa.gov
From Malibu to Irvine, here’s your definitive guide to the best playgrounds around Los Angeles
There is one thing for certain in this life that parents can count on and that’s kids gotta move their bodies. With that in mind, here is an exhaustive roundup of the best playgrounds in Los Angeles that is bound to become your best friend (along with our round-up of the best picnic spots in LA). Pro Tip: Before you head out to one of these top rated playgrounds, don’t forget to check LA County Parks for information on any closures—there’s nothing is worse than disappointed kids that have too much energy. Oh, and the sunscreen. Don’t forget that, either.
This top spot isn't just a playground: it's the whole world of downtown Los Angeles discovery at your toddler's fingertips. The Grand Park playground is stellar in its own right (a long tube slide, tons of rope ladders, and a Seussian series of soft play tunnels, but immediately surrounding it is the playground that is DTLA. Within a short walk is the cornucopia of food, drink, and treat options at Grand Central Market, a delightful ride up or down Angel’s Flight, and a visually appealing scoop of Bae Ice Cream in Little Tokyo.
Walking distance from family-friendly mothership, The Grove and The Original Farmer's Market, Pan Pacific Park features three different playground areas that offer inclusive play for all abilities. In addition to the kids playground, there are basketball courts, a top-of-the-line athletic field, and plenty of picnic and barbecue areas.
Right across the road from the Santa Monica Pier is another little piece of kid park paradise—the Tongva Park playground. With an awesome climbing wall, three tall slides that are built into the hillside, whirly twirly seats that spin, climbing structures and a roller slide, your littles will love spending an afternoon here. And when the temps heat up, there’s even a splash pad to help kiddos cool off.
Insider Tip: Look for metered street parking by the Starbucks on the south side of the park. If that fails, you can always find a spot at the nearby Civic Center. And it you’d rather forgo parking all together, take the Expo Line to the last stop at Colorado and 4th St.—from there, it's a quick and easy walk to Tongva Park.
Ahoy! Located on the Santa Monica beach next to one of LA's best bike paths is a nautical playground fit for all sorts of swashbuckling adventurers. With climbing ropes, swings, a roller slide, and sandpit with water pump, your curious captains will have a blast pretending they are ocean explorers adrift at sea. A soft rubber padded play area covers the entire park’s floors so parents breathe out a sigh of relief while they breathe in that fresh ocean air. Just watch out for when the pirates get hungry. Bonus: you're a mere 15 minute walk from the baklava croissant at Gjusta.
5. Beverly Hills: Coldwater Canyon Park Playground
With plenty of shade, a lovely stream and tall billowing trees, Coldwater Canyon Park is one of our top go-tos whenever we’re in Beverly Hills. This gorgeous spot oozes peace and tranquilty and is perfect for an afternoon picnic or playdate. After kids work up a sweat on the playground, they'll love taking a cool dip in the stream.
Insider Tip: While you’re more than welcome to picnic anywhere you like in the grass, picnic tables must be reserved ahead of time.
What’s better than a day at the playground? A day at the playground with mind-blowing views of the Pacific Ocean. Your beach bumming brood will dig Malibu Bluffs Park with its huge playground, sandpit, zip line and climbing wall. After they work up an appetite, stop by Malibu Farm right down the road for a bite overlooking the water.
This first-responders-themed playground offers a fire truck, police car, lifeguard station and more for kids to explore. Designed by the same nonprofit that brought LA Shane’s Inspiration in Griffith Park, the equipment is accessible and inclusive for children of all abilities.
As the first universally accessible playground on the west coast, this special place has set the bar for how much fun kiddos of all abilities can have when given the chance to play together. Recent renovations have somehow made this playground better than ever. Littles will love playing on the ship, two forms of zip-lines (one with a buddy seat!), and even an accessible merry-go-round! The playground also offers sensory-rich, musical instruments and Too Small to Fail early childhood interactive literacy panels to encourage families to talk, read and sing to their little ones.
Located at the end of the kid-friendly Fern Dell Trail (one of our favorite hikes with toddlers), this towering nature-inspired playground was recently refurbished. Designed for kids ages 2 to 12 years old, it's fully equipped with five slides (including three that are 8 ft. high!), plus a rope ladder, climbing rocks, tree stumps, lily pad ladder and more. For some reason, the playground hasn't yet made it onto Griffith Park's official map or the LA Parks website, but trust us, it's there! Bonus: a quick drive away are the Griffith Park pony rides and a ride-along-train.
2333 Fern Dell Dr. Griffith Park Online:googlemap.com
10. Burbank: Mountain View Park Playground
Small but impressive, this neighborhood park remains under the radar for most. It's located in the Rancho Equestrian area of Burbank, where stables abound and cars stop for horses. (You might even see one during your visit—giddy-up!) Big kids will love the tall, sloping slides in the larger play area, while tots can explore a smaller structure with a climbing wall and faux cave and boulders. There's also plenty of sand for diggers to enjoy.
A second Burbank find, the playground at Johnny Carson Park has bridges, ladders, rings and beams to challenge kids' climbing and coordination skills. Another perk? A large grassy area for running around and a path for practicing bike riding. And although the park is in an urban setting, you can cross a bridge behind the playground to discover a sweet little nature trail.
12. Van Nuys: Lake Balboa Anthony C. Beilenson Park Playground
Lakes in Los Angeles are not the norm so if you’re looking for a playground that feels more like a weekend getaway than just another city park, Anthony C. Beilenson Park delivers in spades. With a universally accessible play structure that’s almost as big as the park itself, little ones and toddlers have more than enough elbow room to swing, shimmy through tunnels and romp around on the jungle gym.
It's lakeside bike path is one of our favorites with kids! Your little two-wheelers can pedal past gaggles of honking geese and quacking ducks. Once your brood has had their fill of land-based activities, hop in a swan paddle boat (for a small rental fee) and tour the lake the way the ducks do!
Insider Tip: Afternoons tend to get busy, so if you plan on renting a bike or paddle boat, we recommend arriving earlier in the day.
Tucked in a residential neighborhood bordering Granada Hills' sprawlingO' Melveny Park, the playground at Bee Canyon Park can only be accessed by crossing a cute wooden bridge. The playground has a larger structure for older kids, and a smaller one for littles. While the equipment is beginning to show its age, the bucolic, hidden setting is what makes this place so special.
In keeping with its rock-filled surroundings, this massive park is all about climbing and boy does it deliver! Perfect for little billy goats that are climbing the walls at home, let them loose here where they can scamper until their hearts (and hooves) are content. From rock walls to a giant web, tree stumps to a man-made boulder, if it's climbable, this playground's got it.
Insider Tip: If your toddling tots are still too tiny for the big playground, make your way to the smaller, shaded one tucked behind the recreation center.
22360 Devonshire St. Chatsworth Online:laparks.org
15. Woodland Hills: Woodland Hills Park Playground
We all know how hot Los Angeles can get (especially in the Valley) so finding a playground with ample shade is a huge plus in our book! Woodland Hills Park has two separate play areas, both catering to different age levels, that are fully covered by bright blue canopies. There is even a fully shaded picnic table area.
16. Pasadena: Reese’s Retreat at Brookside Park Playground
A’hoy mateys! Reese’s Retreat inside Pasadena’s Brookside Park offers pint-sized pirates a coveted chance to channel their inner Captain Jack Sparrow. Your pirates-in-training will have plenty of room to hoist the sails and fire the cannons while they guide their trusty ship over a padded ocean floor. This universally accessible play space also features tons of swings and slides for landlubbers of all ages, as well as a cool sand and water area that’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression in ye car (aaarrrggghhh!). We highly suggest bringing an extra change of pantaloons.
Insider Tip:If you want to make a whole day of it, this park is very close to family favoriteKidspace Children’s Museumand literally next door to the Rose Bowl Aquatic Center (swimminganyone?). The parking lot is free but not when there are major events taking place at the neighboring Rose Bowl. Make sure to check the Bowl's schedule before you head to this park to avoid crowds and parking fees.
Part playground, part futuristic art installation, this intimate hilltop play space showcases much more than just monkey bars and seesaws. Whimsical, state-of-the-art play equipment was created to challenge the younger set both mentally and physically. Nearby, older ones can try out a fitness hike up the famous Culver City stairs or strap on a helmet and hit up the skate park. For those littles who want to get their hands wet, there’s a sand and water area with a working water pump and water wheels where they can build dams and construct sandcastles.
18. Baldwin Hills: Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area Playground
Clocking in at 338 acres, this urban oasis is one of the largest inner-city parks in Los Angeles, making it a great spot to let your wolf pack run free for an afternoon. Sure, there are a couple of cute playgrounds here, but the big draw is the natural beauty plunked smack dab in the middle of the city. Babbling brooks, a Japanese garden, a small but charming waterfall, and a duck-filled pond are only some of what makes Kenneth Hahn so special. Throw in family-friendly hiking trails, spectacular views of the city, acres of grassy fields and even an actual visitors center and you’ve got yourself a diamond in the rough just waiting to be explored!
Insider Tip: For an extra special treat, cross the Park to Playa pedestrian bridge near the Japanese garden and pay a visit to the Stoneview Nature Center—it’s stunning!
This nautically-themed, universally accessible park is perfect for young scallywags who like to make a quick getaway. This fully-enclosed playground has oodles of swings, slides and enough climbing things to fill an active tot’s afternoon. Because of the flat, expansive layout, it’s pretty easy to have eyes on everyone (which is super helpful if you’ve got a larger gang in tow). Glen Alla also has plenty of shade, picnic tables, and a large grassy area surrounds the perimeter, in case you decide to let your Houdinis loose outside the gates for a bit.
Insider Tip: The delicious Del Rey Farmer’s Market sets up shop on the sidewalks surrounding this park every Fri. afternoon from noon–7 p.m. This can be a fun bonus to a Fri. park visit but it also makes the already tricky parking options that much slimmer so plan accordingly!
York Park was built on the site of a former gas station, and while the parklet covers just a third of an acre, it is a little slice of metropolitan magic. While you won’t find much in the way of grass, the urban space is covered with a bright teal and orange, shock-absorbent surface and two main play surfaces. With a beloved snake slide (in-the-know Eastsiders don't call it "Snake Park" for nothin'), an urban forest and musical instruments, this pocket park provides outside entertainment in the middle of the city and is a perfect place to stop and let the kids run wild. York Park is also securely gated and enclosed so you can breathe easy that your little escape artists will be safely contained.
Covering 18 acres, Polliwog is one of the largest parks in the South Bay and boasts a scenic amphitheater overlooking a giant duck and turtle-filled pond as well as a botanical garden, natural wildlife refuge, picnic tables, gazebos, and even a museum.
But honestly, who cares about all that when you have one of the coolest playground slides in LA that features curly slides, wavy slides, and winding wack-a-doodle slides. With three expansive play areas to choose from (including a concrete boat in the middle of a sand ocean), it’s best for your mini minnows to start at one end of the park and work their way to the other. Make it a family furry affair and bring your pup on this outing as there is a large dog run on one end of this pooch-friendly park!
22. Torrance: Los Arboles “Rocket Ship” Park Playground
Blast off to Torrance’s “Rocket Ship” Park and treat your little space cadets to a 28-foot-tall rocket tower they can actually climb inside of and slide down (after they’ve simulated a proper launch of course). Situated on top of a hillside, this hidden neighborhood gem of a park offers spectacular ocean views stretching from the Santa Monica Bay to the San Gabriel Mountains. With a mix of new and old playground equipment, scenic swings and sand for days, your young rocketeers will certainly be over the moon!
Know Before You Go: Kinda like space, there are no restrooms at this park so good to plan ahead just in case!
You’re going to want to pack an extra set (or two) of clothes before heading out on this adventure. One of Irvine’s best-kept secrets, this University of CA Irvine adjacent park is chock-full of everything your little loves could possibly want and more! Prepare for your rugrats to get nice and dirty here as there is a large mud play area as well as water pumps on deck to help build that perfect sand castle.
Along with an incredible castle-like structure, a tree house, kid’s fort building zone, concrete slides, and even a sensory garden, your little piggies will never want to leave! The best part for parents? This park is fully enclosed so while the kiddos wallow in the muck, you can sip coffee and watch them go hog wild from the comfort of a bench.
Insider Tip:There is little shade here so hats and sunscreen are a must. Because of the mud and water features at this park, we recommend bringing a change of clothes (there are hoses near the bathrooms to spray the kids down before it’s time to go). Also, the water pump station is closed every Mon. for maintenance.
We found cities to explore and beaches to relax on
With nearly 70% of families hitting the road over summer break, America’s favorite summer pastime just might be the family road trip. If gas prices make you hesitant to invest in this summer tradition, consider these kid-friendly destinations you can travel to with one tank of gas. From the coastal city of Norfolk, VA where you can combine beach time with city exploring to the Amish town of Lancaster, PA teeming with rural adventures, here are our picks for summer getaways under 4 hours from Washington, DC.
What to See Start at the Children's Museum of Richmond, filled with interactive exhibits where kids can climb, tinker, and play through the educational fun. Sunny days call for farm fun, of course, and your crew will love their visit to Braehead Farm. Get close to friendly farm animals, and take home some delicious farm-grown treats. Explore the historic town on an old-fashioned trolley ride downtown and learn more about where George Washington grew up.
Where to Eat Snack time means you must find a family-friendly spot with treats for all. Italian Station is the answer. Sweet and savory Italian treats and delicious coffee are the best way to start or end your day.
Where to Stay Plan your getaway where you can connect with nature and each other. Wilderness Presidential Resort invites you to bring an RV, rent one, or a log cabin, lakeside cabin, or tent site.
What to See If you can't decide between a city adventure or some R&R at the beach, head to Norfolk, VA, where you can have both. Explore Virginia's oldest zoo, be awe-struck at the Wonder Studio, an interactive space at the Chrysler Museum of Art (free to visit!), tour the battleship USS Wisconsin and take a boat ride at the Norfolk Botanical Garden. When you're ready to relax, head to Ocean View to enjoy Chesapeake Bay-front beaches.
Where to Eat There's a lot to see and do in Norfolk, so you'll want to power up at downtown Grilled Cheese Bistro. You'll find gourmet versions of everybody's favorite sandwich elevated with foodie toppings like olive tapenade, grilled pineapple, fried apples, and more (they also have gluten-free and vegan options). If you find yourself in the NEON district, pick up a sweet treat at La Brioche. After a long day of sightseeing, watch the sunset over the Chesapeake Bay at the Ocean View Fishing Pier.
Where to Stay Stay in the center of the action at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott. With so many things to see and do steps away from the hotel, you can keep your car in the garage.
What to Do You don't need to travel far to find a quaint town with a ton of family fun. Visit Temple Hall Farm burn off energy on the giant jumping pillow, or run around with a few chickens. Escape to a picturesque, family-friendly winery with outdoor space and delicious local food and treats. Drive a short distance to Dulles, VA, to visit the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, an incredible museum full of full-sized aircraft.
Where to Eat Stop by Melt Gourmet Cheeseburgers for a juicy create-your-own burger. Then, if you're ready for some sweets, grab a homemade pie from Mom's Apple Pie with delicious flavors from rhubarb to sour cherry.
Where to Stay Whether hiking along the Potomac, enjoying sunrise yoga, tackling the hardest mile in golf, or trying a new massage, there are endless choices for your family at Lansdowne Resort.
What to Do If you have a Disney-lover in your home, now is the time for the Franklin Institute for the 100-year celebration of The Walt Disney Company, Disney100: The Exhibition. Go on a journey through the beloved stories that dazzled fans since 1923. But Disney fun isn't the only reason to head to this historic city. Be sure to add these highlights to your Philly bucket list when visiting the city of brotherly love: The Liberty Bell, the Philadelphia Zoo, the Please Touch Museum and Reading Terminal Market.
Where to Eat Carnivore kids (and their grown-ups) would be remiss for not grabbing a cheese steak from Campos, known for their shredded steak and super-soft bun. Not into submarine sandwiches? Try the fried cheese curds from Bud and Marilyn's or over-the-top ice cream sandwiches from Weckerly's. Bon appetite!
Where to Stay Located in the heart of the City Center, Logan Hotel is within walking distance of The Franklin Institute, and a quick Lyft ride away from the Philadelphia Zoo, Please Touch Museum, and the Reading Terminal.
What to See Just a quick 3-hour trip from Washington, Rehoboth Beach ranks as the #1 beach destination for DC residents. So many people drive from DC to Delaware that this small town is often called the nation's "Summer Capital." From boardwalk staples like Funland amusement park and Zelky's Arcade to natural attractions like the free public beach and Gordon's Pond, it's no wonder families flock to this beach destination.
Where to Eat Salt Air, a local upscale restaurant, offers fresh, inventive dishes using local ingredients and sustainable fish. Despite catering to foodie adults, this restaurant has a children's menu for kids with grown-up tastes. Just a short walk away, DC restaurateur Chef Todd Gray owns Federal Fritter, where you can carry out corn fritters as a beach-side snack (or eat them as you stroll the boardwalk) when a hot day has you yearning for a scoop (or two), head to The Ice Cream Store.
Where to Stay A couple of hotels line Rehoboth Beach's boardwalk, like the Atlantic Sands and the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel. Still, one of the best-kept secrets is the family-friendly Avenue Inn & Spa, tucked along one of the side streets downtown just one block from the beach and boardwalk.
Where to Eat Joe Squared is a family-owned pizza restaurant that serves coal-fired, thin-crust sourdough pizza; it's casual, family-friendly fare is not far from the waterfront attractions (and just a dough ball toss from Port Discovery).
Where to Stay The Four Seasons Baltimore offers harbor views in almost all its 256 rooms. Its location makes it ideal for anyone exploring the Inner Harbor area. The hotel can arrange babysitting services if you want to explore the city sans kiddos. The hotel also offers cribs, high chairs and playpens free of charge. They even have pint-sized bathrobes and toiletries for their littlest guests.
What to See This quaint town in West Virginia has beautiful paths that wind through the National Park. Your family can stand where Thomas Jefferson stood when he said it was a view worth crossing the Atlantic Ocean for. Stop by the Visitors Center so your kiddos can pick up the Jr. Ranger packet. They’ll get the most adorable badge from a park ranger. Don’t forget to hop on the shuttle into Lower Town. It is stroller-friendly and the only stop with easy parking.
Where to Eat This town is all about ice cream. There are many cute places to grab a bite, but ending your day with a frozen treat is a must. Check out Creamy Creations, Scoops Ice Cream or Cannonball Deli and don’t forget to ask for sprinkles on top.
Where to Stay Connect with nature around the area and get more of the great outdoors by staying in one of Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA’s cabins. There is room for the whole family and your sweet fur baby too.
What to See Brandywine Valley offers many scenic outdoor spaces, like Longwood Gardens, a sprawling, 1000-acre botanical garden. For fairy-themed gardens, head to the Enchanted Woods at Winterthur, where 3-acres are dedicated to fairy tales and magical forest creatures. Check out the Stratosphere, a large-scale (30-foot in diameter) climbing structure that makes the Delaware Children’s Museum a standout.
Where to Eat Woodside Farm Creamery is a destination unto itself. Approximately a 30-minute drive from downtown Wilmington, this dairy-fresh ice cream shop is considered to serve the best scoops in the state. In addition to dairy deliciousness, the farm hosts family-friendly activities, like children’s story time and telescope nights.
Where to Stay Downtown’s Courtyard Wilmington is within walking distance of the historic district and waterfront. Rooms feature mini-fridges and microwaves. If you want to unwind from the day’s activities, relax by the hotel’s fire pit or dip in the outdoor pool.
What to See Arriving in Amish country invites your family to step back to a more peaceful time. Take a leisurely ride on the Strasburg Rail Road, or visit the Hands-On House for fun interactive learning. Children aged 2-10 will love this stop on your trip. A bicycle is the best way to see the PA Amish countryside; Let's Roll Columbia provides a unique way to explore the area.
What to Eat Miller's Smorgasbord Restaurant has been serving delicious food since 1929. They offer multiple dining options and tons of delicious dishes. Many of their ingredients come from local farms. Check their website for family specials and coupons.
Where to Stay Have you ever wondered what living in a tiny house would be like? Tiny Estates offers a one-of-a-kind experience in one of their many tiny houses. You can go tiny with room for two or spread out in one of the gorgeous houses that accommodate six.
What to See History never gets old in this almost 400-year-old town. Help your child “get into character” by renting an adorable period costume. The stories will come alive and make the whole experience more authentic. Hop on a horse-drawn carriage for an original way to see the city. Drive 30 minutes up the road to the Powhatan Indian Village to learn about Pocahontas and her way of life.
Where to Eat Stop by Dubois Grocer to satisfy that afternoon sweet tooth. The friendly store attendant will be more than happy to send you home with some rock candy. At Food for Thought, you’ll dine surrounded by thought-provoking quotes. Cute discussion cards are left on the table to help with dinner conversation. Pick an eclectic dish from the gluten-free or senior’s menu. The kid’s menu is little foodie heaven with salmon, ribs and pot roast, to name a few.
Where to Stay Holiday Inn Club Vacations Williamsburg Resort features two and three-bedroom villas with fully-equipped kitchens and in-unit laundry. A home away from home with everything your family needs to kick back and relax.
What to See Peanuts, peanuts and more peanuts! Southampton County is known for its peanut farms, shops, and museums. Stop by Hope & Harmony Farms to grab a few gourmet bags. Visit Ballyshannon Equestrian Center for a pony or horse ride around their beautiful property. Take a guided kayak tour with Blackwater Outfitters Nottoway River Guides. Meet the locals at the Saturday morning farmers market and take home a few homemade treats for your crew.
What to Eat Fred’s Restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Franklin. It has been a local tradition since 1945. Saturday mornings draw a crowd for the all-you-can-eat buffet and fish fry. Grab a seat on their “secret garden” patio, complete with a wrought iron fence and brick fireplace. The slightly overgrown foliage offers a fairy tale moment.
Where to Stay Check in to PandA Homestead for an authentic farm stay experience. Your kiddos can help with farm chores by hand-feeding their friendly goats, cuddling baby chicks and trying out their best turkey calls.
What to See This city should be renamed Kidsburgh because it has lots of kid-friendly activities and family-centric restaurants. If you’re in town for just the weekend, these attractions make the shortlist: The Phipps Conservatory Botanical Gardens, Carnegie Museum of Natural History and the Carnegie Science Center. The Duquesne Incline offers magnificent views of the city. Fans of Daniel Tiger will love its striking resemblance to the television trolley.
What to Eat Schenley Plaza — a five-acre community space in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood — offers a dining plaza with four food kiosks, including Waffallonia, which offers authentic Liège sugar waffles with delicious toppings. The Porch is a full-service restaurant with a children’s garden and stage area. Before your meal (because who wants to spin around post-nosh), check out the PNC Carousel.
Where to Stay The Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh features the Kimpton Kid program, which includes a welcome gift, a pet goldfish during your stay, complimentary cribs and more. Mom and Dad will appreciate the rooftop Biergarten!
What to See If long road trips are challenging, you can still get away to a historic town full of family fun, and you’ll only have to drive 45 minutes. The best place to start your getaway is downtown. A stroll down Main Street ends at the gorgeous harbor overlooking the Naval Academy. You can take a water taxi across the Chesapeake Bay to the Charthouse for a piece of their famous mudpie. Or, hop on a Watermark Cruise for a 40-minute ride around the area.
Where to Eat Breakfast all day is always a good idea, especially at Iron Rooster. Your kiddos can dive into an order of French toast sticks while you enjoy a local specialty, crab cakes over pancakes. Ask for a table with a view. The harbor is gorgeous by sunset.
Where to Stay The Westin Annapolis is in the perfect location to explore downtown Annapolis and the surrounding areas. You don’t need your car if you’d rather not drive around. A local trolley circles around town and makes getting where you want to go pretty easy.
Inflation is a budget-killer but some of our favorite Bay Area activities for kids are totally free!
Welcome to San Francisco, one of the most beautiful(and most expensive) cities in the world! San Francisco is home to an array of interesting and unique activities, many of which are free (or cost very little). From exploring the Golden Gate Bridge to visiting the world–renowned Fisherman‘s Wharf, there‘s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you‘re looking for a free outdoor adventure or a fun night out, this guide will provide you with the best free activities in San Francisco (and the East Bay and South Bay as well!). So grab your friends and family, and get ready to explore this incredible area without busting your budget.
1. Walk or Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge: A quintessential activity for Bay Area residents is walking across the Golden Gate Bridge. You can do that from the Marin side at the water level by parking at Fort Baker (near the Bay Area Discovery Museum) and walking the steep climb a mile uphill to get to the bridge. Another alternative is to park at the North Tower Golden Gate Parking lot (or nearby along Conzelman Road if the lot is full). Don’t miss a walk to the Ridge Battery for some of the best views.
3. Play in the Presidio: This former military base turned National Recreation Area has a prime location at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge and tons of free options you can explore. The visitor center is a great starting point as it will give you all of the area’s history. Then check out Mountain Lake Park or the abandoned batteries at the north end of Baker Beach. If you time your visit right, you can enjoy some eats at the Presidio Picnic (Sun. from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.) that includes food trucks and fun activities like free bike-riding lessons (first Sunday of the month) and cultural dance performances (fourth Sun. of the month).
4. Visit the Sutro Baths: This super-cool spot over at Land’s End offers visitors a glimpse into a past era of San Francisco history. Here you can explore the ruins of the massive indoor baths that burned to the ground in 1966 and then hike the beautiful coastline above. When you are down by the ruins, there’s even a cave to explore! Some of the paths to get down to the ruins are pretty steep but you can view them from above if you wish. The NPS has a great visitor center in the parking lot above the ruins that has photos that show the history of the area. Bonus for hungry hikers: there’s also a cafe and bathrooms inside!
5. Hike to Kirby Cove: For a totally gorgeous walk with the smell of eucalyptus in the air, hike down to Kirby Cove Beach. You can park at the trailhead near Ridge Battery where you’ll find awesome views of the Golden Gate as well as public restrooms. The hike down to Kirby Cove and back is about two miles and most of it is paved. You’ll reach the Kirby Cove Campground at the bottom where you can check out Battery Kirby before you proceed to the beach. Here you’ll find some of the best views of the Golden Gate in town and if you’re lucky you might even spot some whales offshore.
6. Explore Tilden Farm: It’s almost a Bay Area rite of passage for a child’s first introduction to farm animals to take place at the Tilden free farm. Bring lettuce and celery for the ducks, cows, sheep, chickens, and more, and check back every spring to see if there are any new baby animals crawling around. Afterward, the kids can take a ride on the merry-go-round ($3/ride) or the stream train ($3/ride, under 2 are free) and swim in Lake Anza.
7. Splash Down at These Splash Pads: If your crib doesn’t have a pool and your crew wants to cool off, there’s no better way to do it than at a splash pad. You can frolic in the fountains at Stanford (yep, it’s true!) or check out one of these local gems where the water is on!
8. Explore McLaren Bike Park: This gem of a bike park opened in SF’s Excelsior neighborhood and there are plans underway to expand beyond its current footprint. Bring the kids and the helmets to try out the pump track and the skills course. Perfect for mini BMXers looking to increase their skills, the park is open daily from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
9. Go on a Sea Safari: Check the tide schedule and pick a time when the tide is super low before heading out to one of your local tide pools. Kids will love searching for the colorful sea stars, quick-as-lightning minnows, and clunky sea snails. The James Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Half Moon Bay is an ideal spot for tide pool novices as they often have docents on the weekends to point out all the critters to the kids.
10. Explore a New Playground: It seems like there are new playgrounds popping up all the time around here. Now is the perfect time to pack up some snacks and set out to explore a new spot in your ‘hood or a new area altogether. Check out this list of 30 of our favorite parks in SF including the brand-new duo of climbing and swinging structures at the Civic Center. Up for exploring an East Bay park? Spend some time at Oakland’s Frog Park or cool off at San Ramon’s Central Park. The Peninsula is home to our very favorite all-abilities playground, Magical Bridge. Or head south to check out the pirate-themed Seven Seas Playground (perfect on a hot day) or one of these other South Bay faves.
11. Tour the City with SF City Guides: Whether you’ve been itching to explore Chinatown or the Palace of Fine Arts, SF City Guides has a tour for you. All of the walking tours are free and you don’t have to reserve a spot in advance, just show up with your kid crew at the meet-up time and you’re off! Tours like the Ferry Building and Market Street are especially stroller friendly, those like Nob Hill and Chinatown have hills that could be more challenging. The majority of the tours offered are kid-friendly, if they are not it will be stated in the tour details.
12. Tour the Nike Missile Site: During the tense years of the Cold War, from 1953 to 1979, the United States Army built and operated close to 300 Nike missile sites in the United States. These sites were designed as the last line of defense against Soviet bombers. Today, volunteers work in partnership with the Golden Gate National Recreation Area on the continuous task of restoration at site SF-88L, the only fully restored Nike missile site in the country. This museum is an enduring reminder of the Cold War and allows visitors to reflect upon the realities of the Cold War and their influence on today’s society.
13. Visit Adventure Playground: For kids who are into painting, building, hammering, painting, climbing, jumping, ziplining, getting dirty and running wild, Adventure Playground is one of the few places left in the world just for them. Disclaimer: it’s not recommended for the youngest ones, and nervous and overprotective parents will have a hard time letting their kids work with real saws and nails. But it can be really empowering for kids who are ready.
14. Hikes Galore: With gorgeous weather pretty much year-round, it’s always a good time to head out and explore a new trail. In the spring you can check out all of the local waterfall hikes. Even the youngest walkers will enjoy these hikes that are perfect for them. Or, strap the kids in the stroller and set out on one of these paths that are perfect for stroller hikes.
1. Free Admission to Museums & More with Discover and Go: Did you know that you can get free passes to museums, aquariums, zoos, and more, right from your local library? With your library card, you can log in to your library’s Discover and Go website, pick a date and find out what free passes are available to check out that date. Some attractions offer free admission and others are heavily discounted.
You can have up to two active reservations at a time and reservations can be made up to three months in advance. New passes are released on the first of the month (ex. on January 1st, passes for March are released). You can cancel a reservation as long as the pass has not been printed. Some attractions limit you to one pass per calendar year so check out the details when you log in.
2. Visit the de Young and Legion of Honor Museums: While youth 17 and under have always gotten in free to the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco (which include Golden Gate Park’s de Young as well as the Legion of Honor), these museums have upped their game and added additional free day initiatives. Bay Area residents now get in free every Saturday! The museums also joined the Museums for All program to offer free admission to individuals receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits). They will continue to offer their free first Tues. admission program.
3. Visit the Palace of Fine Arts: Just a short walk from Crissy Field and the Presidio, you’ll love spending the day at the Palace of Fine Arts. There are a few great climbing trees, shade, and lots of wildlife watching. Can you spot the red-eared sliders sunning themselves on the logs? If you are looking for a picnic, we love grabbing a pizza from A 16 and bringing it over here to eat.
4. Hang Out in Golden Gate Park: Whether your idea of fun is joining in a drum circle, enjoying a cascading waterfall, or spending some time walking through a Japanese tea garden, Golden Gate park is the place to be. It has over 1,000 acres to explore. Check out our handy list of all the free and fun things to do in Golden Gate Park.
5. Explore the Batteries: The Marin Headlands house an amazingly-rich history, which you can see if you visit any of the area’s many batteries. While at Cavallo Point, take the cellphone tour of Fort Baker and then head over to check out Battery Yates and Battery Cavallo. All these spots have informational placards that will give you details about how the area was used in the past.
6. Explore the Bay Model: Kids with an interest in science and the environment will love the Bay Model Visitor Center. Constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to illustrate and understand the water flow of the Bay, this large-scale working model, complete with replicated tides, is a perfect way to expand your kid’s knowledge of water, waves, and beaches. Starting at the northern end and then working the way down to the south bay, then over to the delta, your child can watch the daily tidal changes take place in just a few minutes. Bonus: the boats docked just outside make for even more fun.
Explore the Ferry Building: This spot along the Embarcadero is a fun spot to visit if you are hungry but also to explore with the kids. They will love checking out the ferries coming and going, playing at Sue Bierman Park across the street and trying to make their way through the Vaillancourt Fountain without getting wet. The San Francisco Railway Museum is always free and the SF fireboat dock just a short distance away.
Sign Up for Your Free Pre-K Pass to Great America: Kids ages 3-5 can get free admission to California's Great America including The Great Pumpkin Fest and WinterFest. Register online and activate at the park. When signing up for the first time you must bring a birth certificate or passport to the park with you to validate your child's birth date.
Free Animal Encounters: Get up close to a giant pig or pet a bearded dragon at your local nature center. We have this list of local nature centers and many of them offer free admission and hours of animal entertainment.
These splash pads and water playgrounds are the hottest spots to cool down in and around Chicago this summer
Lazy summer days at the lake, pool, or beach are the highlights of Chicago summer memory-making for kids. But, mix things up by scheduling raging days at splash pads, water parks, and “spraygrounds” sprinkled throughout the city of Chicago and its outer suburbs. These splashy spots are perfect for when you need to get out of the house on a hot summer day. Some parks with water play that we’ve uncovered are neighborhood hidden gems while others are all-out amusement-park-style destinations. Either way, you and your tot will be happy to cool off without taking a dunk or forking over much money—in fact, most are completely free activities. Keep reading for the hottest picks for a cool-down.
Enjoy a Wisconsin Dells-like day without crossing the border. Kids get drenched running through rainbow-colored archways, shooting water cannons, and traipsing through geysers. Those scared of getting splashed will love the sprawling, multi-level water table with boats. The ground is concrete, so pack your bag with sturdy-soled water shoes and a few Band-Aids—just in case.
The 36.5-acre Portage Park, located at the corner of Irving Park Rd. and Central Ave. is an expanse of lush landscaping that offers a fun option for every kid that loves to play, including six tennis courts, a new soft-surface ADA accessible playground, a slab for in-line skating, a new dog friends area, a bike path, a nature walk, five baseball fields, two combination football/soccer fields and two fieldhouses, one housing a gymnasium and the other a cultural arts building. But things get super cool on hot summer days at Portage Park, thanks to an Olympic-size pool, a large deck for sunning, misting sprays and interactive water play area with slides. The small kiddie pool is heated, too, for those days that are on the chillier side.
While many places offer sprinklers, this one is a veritable water park with a mini slide and pipes springing “leaks.” The waterfalls are gentle enough for babies, but you’ll find older kids in the mix, too. Just beyond the fenced-in splash area is a playground and generously sized sandbox filled with toys. Bonus: The fieldhouse here is one of the nicer ones around town, so take advantage of it for potty breaks and changing in and out of swimsuits.
Standing guard as the gateway to this massive park, the water sprayers here look like flowers from an Alice in Wonderland scene. Gentle showers and intermittent geysers shooting upward leave plenty of room for active imaginations—and little legs. Hop over to the adjacent playground to dry off, or better yet, hold an epic game of tag on the gigantic baseball field.
When a park is named after the king of the Beanie Babies empire, expect fun to be a top priority. Watch the kiddies make a beeline for the soft-surface play area featuring water cannons, mushroom cap waterfalls, spraying anchors and dumping buckets. When they finally peel themselves away for a break, spread out snacks on the shaded picnic tables or, better yet, indulge in ice cream, pizza or corn dogs at the concession stand.
This sprawling sanctuary off the lake is known for its crayon-colored trees, climbing wall, and a playground even your big kids would fawn over. A few steps away lies a spray area with jets of water gushing from rocks as a respite from the heat. The setup is such that you can stay with your tot and still keep an eye on your older kids on the slides. Pack the beach towels, too, and hit the 31st St. Beach for an entire day of summer revelry.
After baking in the sun for so long, the animals need to cool off. Your animals, that is. Water mists dot the walkways around the zoo, but kids can enjoy getting fully drenched in the mini splash pad outside The Living Coast entrance. Make it an all-out day trip to take in everything the zoo offers—don’t forget to check your local library for a free entrance pass (parking rates apply).
If you find yourself in the Elgin area, Festival Park is a must-visit. Right off the river and down the road from cute bistros and shops, the water area here is a collection of geysers shooting up to delight toddlers and tweens alike. They’re set in a circle formation surrounded with benches mercifully sitting in the shade for you to relax and monitor your babe. There’s also a playground, but odds are your kids won’t even notice.
The cushioned water playground is a favorite, with enough space and sprayers to keep a big crowd happy. It sits next to a pool, so if you have both toddlers and big kids to entertain, bring a friend to divide and conquer. There’s something for everyone at this park, from walking paths to canoe rides, a playground and soccer and baseball fields.
Though it's not officially a splash pad, city kids have claimed Millennium Park's Crown Fountain as a water play area of their very own. Two digital displays feature smiling faces that transform into waterfalls. Three inches of water divide the displays, where kids love to skip, splash and make water angels. Bring water shoes as the grounds can be slippery.
Located in the northeast corner of Oak Park, Andersen Park's splashy playground features a bell-shaped spray feature, directional jets and ground geysers. The multi-purpose room at Andersen Center provides a great rental opportunity for birthday parties. A small soccer field is perfect for little kickers.
This humble corner playlot in the Belmont-Cragin neighborhood isn’t the trendy destination that others are, and that’s why we love it so. Sure, the playground’s newer, as are the whimsical rainbow-shaped fixtures flowing infant-friendly sprays. But it’s situated in a mainly industrial corridor, tucked away without fanfare: a true hidden gem. It’s also one of the few parks named after a woman—and a labor rights activist at that. Soak up the history while your tot splashes at this pit stop.
Spending a few extra fidgety minutes in the car will be well worth it once your kids lay eyes on this gorgeous park. Rainbow sprinklers, geysers, water shooters, buckets: You name it, this water park has it. Lounge on the deck chairs while your littles romp, or take them just outside the gates to the shaded playground.
Kids get to stretch their pseudo-seafaring legs at this free suburban oasis within Glenview's Gallery Park. Just a stone’s throw away from Kohl Children’s Museum, it’s the stuff of summer vacation: a castle-themed playground, shrubbery maze, nostalgic porch-style swings and, of course, the cool interactive splash pad. Kids stomp on buttons to shoot streams of water from the ground while a cooling mist envelops the whole area.
In the heart of West Loop, this park is the epitome of urban cool with its unique playground and sloping hills. The sprawling steel sculptures in the middle aren’t just an artistic statement; they shoot out mist to refresh your pink-cheeked park-lover without having to break out a swimsuit. Bring Fido with you, since an enclosed dog park is also onsite.
Pool, schmool. An entire aquatic playground awaits here, and it's composed of three areas. The main one features a slick water slide, water guns and geyser-spitting pipes. A few steps away is a pole crowned with buckets, ready to dump water on squealing kids. The third features a crowd-pleasing simple sprayer. If only a dunk in the deep end will do, venture indoors to the zero-depth Olympic-sized pool for laps. Bonus: Mario’s Italian Lemonade is within walking distance.
To be a hip urban parent is to frequent this place. As one of the first parks to have updated sprinklers and a soft surface, it personifies city living by packing forward-thinking fun in such a small footprint. You’ll find a county fair-worthy wooden train and whimsical kid-sized clubhouse to stoke imaginative play. The layout of this space, right down to the concrete bench perimeter, makes it feel cozy and communal — a true neighborhood cornerstone.
Look beyond the five lighted ball diamonds, three irrigated natural grass soccer fields, four batting cages and the 18-hole miniature golf course and you'll spot the giant, 6,000 sq. ft. spray ground and its nine exciting water features at Elmhurst's Berens Park. Pick up a Big Squirt at the Big Squirt filling stations to soak your friends. Easy parking, a party room and a picnic pavilion make this a popular spot for summer birthday parties.
With its five slides, a fully-accessible sprayground and interactive multi-level play area, Skokie Water Playground makes for a cool summer afternoon. Locker rooms with showers and the onsite Weber Park Cafe mean you can play, picnic and wash away the sunscreen and sweat afterward.
Located within Maryknoll Park (at the corner of Pershing Ave. & Route 53), this fab park is the place to play in the summertime: 12 spray pieces, a water tower, an amazing power launch pod, a water tunnel, an aqua dome, spray cannons and a zero-depth pad offer hours of splash-worthy fun. Bring a picnic to enjoy under the pavilion and plan to spend some time at the adjacent Maryknoll Park Adventure Playground, where you'll find a 75' zip-line, climbing boulders, and shade structure.
This incredible island oasis, a zero-depth entry interactive splash playground is perfect for little ones that aren't quite ready to jump into a pool but still want to splash and play on a summer's day. Three waterslides, bubbler jets, dumping buckets, a water tornado, and shooting water animals guarantee oodles of fun. Shade structures keep sun-sensitive kids safe. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the separate eating area.
It’s just as easy to go fishing. In fact, it’s especially easy to go fishing with kids because, in Seattle, children can fish without a license* (that makes it easy on the wallet, too!). The only question is: beach, pier, or boat? If you’re ready to get your little ones hooked on this time-honored family outing, check out the most popular kid-friendly fishing spots in the area. An insider tip for beginners: If your pint-sized anglers are completely new to the sport (or you are as well), you might want to opt for one of the local fishing holes that charge a small fee—they usually have experts who’d be happy to show you the ropes. Ready to hook, line, and sinker? Here’s where to bring your family of fishers.
Reverend Murphy Fishing Pier
You’ll enjoy a lovely view from this kid-friendly fishing spot in Seward Park on Lake Washington, especially if the mountain is out. Après fishing, enjoy a stroll through Seward Park, swing on the zip line, play on the playground equipment, or go for a swim at the swimming beach. Don’t forget to bring an extra layer. This fishing spot can get a bit windy.
The fish are jumping at Jim’s U Fish. With two freshwater ponds stocked with rainbow trout, the fish here are surprisingly easy to catch—so younger kids think it’s lots of fun. No fishing license is required, and they will clean and bag your fish for a minimal charge ($0.50). Bring your own gear or rent from them ($3/pole). But what about the kids in your family who aren’t interested in fishing? No problem. Enjoy all that Old McDebbie’s 20-plus acre farm has to offer—it’s got exotic animals, pony rides, a petting zoo, playgrounds, and more. Pack your own lunch to enjoy at one of several picnic spots for a full day of fun with the fam.
Insider Tip: No catch-and-release is allowed here. It costs $6 per fish, and expect a $25 fee for each fish thrown back. Also: there’s an admission cost to enjoy the property amenities and go fishing.
Watch ferries crisscross the Sound as you fish from the driftwood-strewn beach at Lincoln Park. Popular with families, Lincoln Park boasts great salmon fishing during the summer months, as well as plenty of other activities (think playgrounds, hiking trails, ballfields, zip lines, and even an outdoor, heated saltwater pool). Enjoy the inclusive and accessible play elements, including a small alcove for sensory sensitive children. But be prepared: Lincoln Park can get quite busy, especially during the bi-annual “pink” salmon run.
Nestled on the shores of Union Bay, you’ll find Belvoir Place, a 400-foot dock that’s perfect fishing for kids. This hidden gem in Seattle’s Laurelhurst neighborhood is not usually busy, so it’s a calm spot for beginners. Kids can fish for largemouth and smallmouth bass, yellow perch, sablefish, black crappie, and more. Psst… one of the reasons that this spot is among Seattle’s best-kept secrets is probably because it’s quite hard to find—the dock is squeezed between two private houses.
Apart from the occasional airliner passing overhead, Angle Lake is a great escape from the city. At this L-shaped, 10-acre urban park, you will find a big fishing pier, sandy beach, and grassy area as well as a playground, picnic area, and swimming beach to pass the time when the fish aren’t biting. During the summer months, silver trout called kokanee are plentiful, but you can also reel in largemouth bass, black crappie, rock bass, yellow perch, and, if you’re lucky, a rainbow trout.
19408 International Blvd.
SeaTac, WA Online:wdfw.wa.gov
Redondo Beach Pier
Countless children have memories of catching their first fish at Redondo Pier. Kids fishing for salmon, sole, and perch will be in luck at this popular spot south of Seattle. In addition to the large fishing pier, there’s a bait shop at the top. After you’ve gotten your fill, take a stroll along the boardwalk or visit the Marine Science and Technology (MAST) Aquarium for free to see what got away. The aquarium is open to the public on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and is home to over 250 species of sea life with two large touch tanks.
For little anglers in North Seattle, Green Lake is stocked full of rainbow and brown trout just waiting to be caught. Kids can also catch channel catfish, carp and pumpkinseed sunfish. With excellent shoreline access and fishing piers, you can drop your line anywhere around the lake and see what will nibble on your line. Of course, Green Lake also offers tons of other activities if the fish are not biting, including a three-mile paved trail, boat rentals, a play area, a wading pool, and lots of tasty nearby eateries and coffeeshops.
There’s so much to do at this Lake Washington park, including kid-friendly fishing from the pier. Hang out at the fishing pier or stroller along the paved shoreside walking trails. But don’t worry if you don’t catch any fish, you can always catch a tasty cod ‘n’ chips from Ivars Seafood Bar, located right by the fishing pier or grab a burger from Kidd Valley. No dogs are allowed at Coulon Beach, so leave Fido at home.
1201 Lake Washington Blvd. N.
Renton, WA Online:rentonwa.gov
If you’re looking for a spot in between Bellevue and Seattle, head over to Mercer Island, where the fishing is fine! Drop your line into Lake Washington from the fishing pier at Luther Burbank Park and see if you can catch a black crappie, coastal cutthroat, largemouth bass, crawfish or longnose sucker—all while enjoying the amazing views. The park boasts three-quarters of a mile of waterfront, a swimming beach (no lifeguard on duty), a great play area, and an off-leash dog park for your pooch.
The Old Fishing Hole, adjacent to the Green River Trail, is a favorite of young fishers for generations, catering to anglers aged 14 years and younger. The best part? It’s stocked with 1,500 trout every year. So grab yourself a spot on the grassy shore, bait your hook and reel ’em in! While there, take a walk along the loop trail. It’s easy—it’s only .25-miles long. Also, check out the “Cedar and Salmon” totem pole carved by artist David Boxley.
Frager Rd. (south of W. Meeker St.)
Kent, WA Online:mountaineers.org
This hatchery can be loads of fishy fun for amateur anglers, but you might find the fish are a little too easy to catch (sometimes they’re practically jumping on to your line). They offer everything you need for a great first-time-fishing experience. The poles, bait, buckets, nets, and helpful staff are all included and no fishing license is required, although outside poles are not allowed. No reservations are needed, and pricing is based on the size of the fish you catch. They will even clean the fish if you like ($0.50 per fish). There’s no catch-and-release here, so plan to bring your fish home.
Insider Tip: Gold Creek Trout Farm is a state-certified food fish supplier, and their ponds are filled with spring water so the fish have a very fresh taste.
The young Eastside anglers’ not-so-secret spot, Pine Lake, is perfect for fishing with kids. The catch rate is highest early in the season, but also consider stopping by in the fall when fish have had all summer to grow and then become active around the lake in the cooler temperatures. Here, you can reel in rainbow trout, largemouth bass, brown bullhead, yellow perch, and pumpkinseed sunfish from the fishing pier. Or bring your boat and try catching a big one out in the lake. There is ample shoreline and a large fishing pier at the public park. There is a boat ramp, but water craft are restricted to car-toppers and float tubes; outboard motors are prohibited.
2401 228th Ave. S.E.
Sammamish, WA Online: sammamish.us
Edmonds Marina Fishing Pier
With the incredible views of Puget Sound, the ferries coming and going and the seasoned fishers lined up along the railing, the Edmonds Marina Fishing Pier has lots to offer. Kids can watch the masters show them how it’s done and maybe even offer a little advice, if you ask nicely. The dock is walking distance from local shops and restaurants so you can grab a bite once you’ve caught your quota.
It would be difficult to find a more beautiful spot to fish than Golden Gardens. Even if the fish aren’t biting, the view of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains is spectacular. Located in Ballard, this park also features two wetlands, a short loop trail and a children’s play area and lots of sandy beaches if you decide to hang up the poles and build a sandcastle instead.
*Editor’s Note: As previously stated, children 14 years old and under do not need a fishing license to fish in the state of Washington. However, they do need to keep and fill out a catch record card if they are fishing for salmon, halibut, sturgeon, steelhead, or Puget Sound Dungeness crab. You can register for one online or call the Fish Program Customer Service line at 360-902-2700 for more information. All catch record cards must be returned to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife by the appropriate deadline, even if you didn’t catch anything.
Additional reporting by Abbey McGee, Helen Walker Green & Kristina Moy
There’s even an Airbnb with its own observatory for stargazing
Traveling with kids can be a lot: long, cramped flights, rental cars in which you can barely fit your brood, airport delays you wish came with on-site babysitters, and on and on. SoCal fams, why not book a vacation that doesn’t require a plane ticket? Whether you want to make like a movie star in the Hollywood Hills or binge Netflix on the big screen inside this bonafide Batcave near Disneyland, these are the best Airbnbs in and around Los Angeles.
Castle with a Pool – Hollywood Hills
Airbnb
For your little knights and princesses, this meticulously restored 1920s castle is straight out of a storybook. Located near the top of Wonderland Avenue and Laurel Canyon Boulevard (an artsy enclave famous for being home to legendary rock stars from the 1960s and 1970s), the grounds are completely enclosed by stone walls, and offer a private courtyard off the master, a built-in fire pit and a spacious pool to play in. Original details like stone turrets, gothic arches, and exposed beams abound. It’s a splurge, but so worth it.
This beautiful, open-concept loft overlooks the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by three acres of mature gardens. Bonus? The oranges and lemons are ready to pick upon your arrival. Besides the enviable outdoor dining with ocean views and access to the nearby “Billionaire’s Beach” (where celebrities like David Geffen, Dr. Dre, Rob Reiner, Larry Ellison, and the former Dodgers CEO Jamie McCourt have reportedly had seaside homes), this colorful and light-filled home has a quirky fun feel that makes us think staying here is practically guaranteed fun.
Beach House with Arcade Games and a Rooftop Deck – Venice
Airbnb
This tri-level home is just four blocks from Venice’s trendy Abbot Kinney Street (shops and restaurants galore!) and a 10-minute walk to the Venice Boardwalk. With plenty of room to spread out, this home has three bedrooms and 2 1/2 bathrooms, with a spacious living room that’s got a stand-up arcade game and foosball table. But the real highlight of this spot (besides the killer urban location) is the rooftop, which has panoramic views of Venice, as well as a barbecue, fire pit, dining, and lounge area.
Note: Because of all the levels (and no gates on the stairs), we recommend this home for families with kids over 5.
Located smack dab in the middle of the historic Venice Canals (the SoCal version; not the Italian one), this unassuming 1950s bungalow is tucked between large Chinese Maple and Eucalyptus trees and offers a quiet respite—despite being just a few blocks from the bustling Venice Beach. When you’re not enjoying the serene waterfront view, take a quick stroll to see myriad street performers, sidewalk artists, stores, coffee shops, and eateries around the Venice Beach Boardwalk.
The rental is the front unit of a duplex bungalow and offers 1 bedroom, 1 full bathroom, a full kitchen, a deck overlooking the canals, and 1 dedicated parking spot.
Note: Babies and kids are welcome at this Airbnb, but due to its proximity to the canal (the walkways don’t have fences to stop littles from falling in) and numerous stone steps, the host says it’s “not ideal” for smaller kids.
Picture-Perfect Lake House with Views Galore – Lake Arrowhead
Airbnb
This pristine hillside home looks like something out of a magazine. If you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation (Book your stay early!), the four-bedroom historic lake house won’t disappoint. Located within walking distance to the water, the home has 180-degree lake views from almost everywhere in the house—with three huge decks perfect for watching the boats go by as you soak in the hot tub or stay warm by the fire pit. It was built in 1935 but has been 100 percent remodeled with all the modern amenities and special touches—including leather couches, beaded chandeliers, and a “swing bar” on the first floor that features wooden playground swings instead of seats. There’s also a “kid loft” with three built-in twin beds and a toy shelf stocked with games, puzzles, and books.
The host, a mom of three, said that her goal was “to outfit the house with everything a parent would need so they don’t have to bring a single baby item.” That means you’ll have pack ‘n plays, noise machines in every room, high chairs, kids’ cutlery/dishes, and plenty of games to keep the kids busy.
Note: Don’t worry about those three levels and your little climbers! The host provides baby gates (located in the closets) to block off any areas or stairs that you want to be off-limits.
Vaulted wood ceilings? Check! Bunk beds? Check! Waterfront location with a dock to park your kayaks, canoes, or other water vehicles? Yes, yes, yes! This Big Bear cabin has everything you’d want in a summer getaway spot. Relax and take in the view through the floor-to-ceiling picture windows, or step onto the outside deck to enjoy unobstructed lake views while you barbecue beneath the stars (Hint: You’ve got a perfect view of the Fourth of July fireworks from here!). There’s also a grassy yard that leads to the waterfront, where there’s a dock free for guests’ use (boat/kayak rentals are available from shops throughout Big Bear, and these can be delivered to the home).
Note: The host offers 1 free (1-day) snowboard or ski rental in the winter months or 1 single kayak rental (for 2 hours) in the summer months.
Nestled amid the Alpine forest of Idyllwild-Pine Cove, about 2 hours from Los Angeles, this mystical abode is a dream come true for anyone who is into fairies and magic. Designed as a creative space—and, by the looks of its Instagram page, popular with yogis and artists—the bohemian three-story cabin has enough enchanting nooks and crannies to keep kids endlessly exploring. The home has a movie room, a library, a yoga studio (renting this costs extra), and five colorful bedrooms. Decorative tree branches lace their way around spiral staircases, and cozy treetop-level window nooks will make a birdwatcher out of anyone who stops to sit. Outside, a network of wooden bridges and platforms crisscross the exterior, leading the way through the trees to three fire pits, a sauna, a jacuzzi, and numerous outdoor sitting areas.
Note: This place may not be suitable for children under 5, since the home contains several staircases (including a spiral one) and fragile “magical” items.
Airbnb Near Disneyland with Its Own Batcave – Orange County
Airbnb
Perfect for all the superhero-loving kids (and kids-at-heart), this rental just 10 minutes from Disneyland has a full backyard playground, fantastically-themed superhero rooms (including a Superman bedroom with enough beds for six kids!), and a full arcade that gamers will love. But the real highlight of this place lurks behind a hidden door: Pull the right book on the bookshelf and you’ll find a Batcave so authentic you’ll wonder if the owner works in the movie biz (Hint: He doesn’t). The cave houses a life-size model of the caped crusader himself, a “control center” where heroes-in-training can pull up a chair and oversee Gotham; and a movie theater with luxury recliner seating for nine people and a large movie screen. It’s all so fun you won’t want to leave.
Desert Home with Its Own Observatory – Yucca Valley
Courtesy/ Observatory Retreat
If stargazing is your thing, this one-of-a-kind desert home checks all the boxes. Besides being far from the light pollution of nearby cities, the three-bedroom home 20 minutes from Joshua Tree has a standalone dome observatory so you can get a closer look at our celestial neighbors. And don’t worry if you’re not a professional astronomer, the observatory uses software that lets you select a constellation on the computer for the telescope to automatically rotate accordingly. Besides that stellar experience (which, let’s be honest, is reason enough to visit), the rental also has two game rooms (with a pool table, ski ball, and shuffleboard table), an outdoor hot tub, and a fire pit. Perched on a hill in the middle of the rocky landscape, it also has 360-degree views of the surrounding area.
Enjoy a night on the farm inside your very own tipi at this Temecula-area farm stay where the animals are the real stars of the show. You’ll sleep on comfy floor mattresses inside an authentic teepee surrounded by farm animals, including a whole herd of goats (Pssst: Two new babies were just born in May!), chickens, miniature horses, pigs, and one lama. The tipi has a bathroom, hot shower, propane fire pit (the tent is ventilated enough so that it’s safe—we asked!), fridge, mini kitchen, Wifi, 2 twin beds, and a queen bed. When you’re not hanging in the tipi, your fam is free to roam the fruit orchards; pet, brush, or feed the animals; and play on the tree swing. You can even help milk the goats if that’s your thing.
Mansion with a Mini Golf Course in SoCal’s “Wine Country”- Murrieta
Airbnb
If you’ve got a large group looking to vacation like royalty, this luxurious 8-bedroom mansion just north of Temecula will have you feeling like the rich and famous. Sprawled across 5 acres, the vineyard estate (it’s an operating winery!) has a resort-style pool, hot tub, tennis court, basketball court, bocce ball a custom 9-hole mini golf course. Sure, you could explore the area—the nearby wineries, hot air balloon rides, or the local town—but why go anywhere? This place has enough to do that you’ll be hard-pressed to leave. Besides the bevy of outdoor offerings to keep your group busy, the interior of this lavish home offers a billiards room, arcade, home theater, three fireplaces, a bar that’ll have you feeling like you’re in a hotel, and plenty of space to spread out.
All aboard! This little red trolley is the coziest sleepover spot around. Designed as a labor of love by a dedicated father-son team, the converted trolley car comes fully equipped with a queen-sized bed, 40″ TV, stovetop, fridge, microwave, air fryer, dishes, silverware, tile shower, games, heating & air conditioning. There’s also a large deck with recliner chairs and a barbecue if you want to cook under the stars before heading out to explore the area; the trolley is about 30 minutes from Vasquez Rocks, 10 minutes to Six Flags Magic Mountain, and 50 minutes to downtown Los Angeles.
Note: While children aren’t prohibited, the trolley only has one bed, and isn’t child-proofed. If you don’t mind ditching your partner for your a little, the host is fine with children, but this quirky spot may be best left to the grown-ups.
*All rates are accurate as of this publication, though prices may change based on demand, day, and season. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
From on-property hotels that offer loads of perks to budget-friendly accommodations where you can see the Disneyland fireworks, this list has it all
If you’re planning a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth (the SoCal edition), you’re probably wondering where you’re going to go after the fireworks end. And unless you’re a local, that probably means staying at a hotel. But how do you choose a place when the options are as bountiful as the bevy of balloons for sale on Disneyland’s Main Street? We’re here to help! Whether you want a plush hotel inside the Disney bubble or a vacation rental with its own private playground, here are our picks for the best hotels and Airbnbs near Disneyland.
On-Property Disneyland Hotels
Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort
Staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel is definitely more expensive than choosing nearby accommodations, but for those who like to keep the Disney vibe going after closing time, it’s a must-do. Perks of staying on-site include early access to the parks (guests are allowed in 30 minutes before scheduled opening time), delivery of purchases to your room; special entrances; and opportunities to see Disney characters up close and personal (characters may saunter through the lobby or into the breakfast rooms). These are your choices, from most to least expensive:
Capturing the spirit of early California, Disney’s award-winning Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is the most luxurious of the on-site properties. The first hotel to be built inside a Disney park (it’s actually a part of California Adventure), the GC is the flagship hotel of the Disneyland Resort, with 948 guest rooms and 71 Disney Vacation Club Villas. The sprawling hotel has an upscale lodge sort of feel, with dark wood touches and elegant odes to Monterey pines and redwood forests. There are also three (!) swimming pools and five dining locations, including Storytellers Café, Hearthstone Lounge, GCH Craftsman Bar & Grill, and the award-winning Napa Rose restaurant.
Worth Mentioning: Guests of the hotel have a private entrance into California Adventure, which lets them bypass long lines at the main entrance.
Filled with old-time nostalgia that would make Walt proud, this 973-room hotel (the first one to be built at the park) offers three distinct towers to choose from—the Adventure, Fantasy, and Frontier Towers—each an homage to the park’s original lands. The landmark hotel has two pools and two water slides as well as memorable dining options including Goofy’s Kitchen, Tangaroa Terrace, Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, and the award-winning Steakhouse 55.
Worth Mentioning: If you stay in the Fantasy Tower, keep an eye out for touches of pixie dust and “hidden” Mickeys lurking inside the hotel’s mid-century modern decor. In all guest rooms, the headboards light up with fireworks and play “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes.”
Note: Families looking for a home away from home might want to check out the soon-to-debut Villas at Disneyland Hotel, which will offer studios with kitchenettes, washers and dryers, and private bedrooms. The villas are scheduled to open in Fall 2023.
Disneyland’s least expensive (but still pricy) on-site hotel, Paradise Pier, offers a more basic experience than its ritzier cousins—but if you want to stay inside the Disney bubble, it fits the bill. The 481-room high rise has a SoCal “day at the beach” theme, and littles will love the sizable pool and a twisty waterslide. For dining, guests may enjoy the whimsical PCH Grill restaurant, with quick bites and refreshments also available in the lobby’s Surfside Lounge or at the poolside Sand Bar.
Note: Travelers should know that the hotel is currently under construction, so there may be expected closures and construction noise.
Worth Mentioning: Despite being an “on-property” hotel, Paradise Pier isn’t actually next to Disneyland; it’s a half-mile walk to the park’s front gates or a 5-minute walk to Downtown Disney, (where you can hop on the monorail to get to Disneyland Park).
Hoping to save a few bucks and don’t mind leaving the Disney bubble for the evening (note: this may be a good thing)? There are plenty of choices for fun, quality off-site lodging. Looking for a water park? Check! Hoping for a view of the fireworks? OK? Want a themed hotel? Sure! Here are your best bets:
Best Themed Hotel (that’s not part of Disneyland): Anaheim Majestic Garden
Cost: $100-400 per night
Anaheim Majestic Garden
By the looks of the iconic castle turrets and the beautiful costumed princess who roams the halls, you’d think this place was a part of Mickey’s realm. On the contrary, this budget-friendly hotel just down the street from Disneyland offers enough magic for the littles without emptying your wallet (which means you can buy more at the park the next day!). The Medieval-themed hotel is sprawled over 13 acres that include three courtyards, a rose garden, an outdoor pool, and a koi pond. The rooms are spacious, with a royal theme that includes princess headboards and, in higher-class rooms, castle bunk beds.
Kids too pooped to stay at Disney until closing? The Disneyland fireworks can be viewed from several locations around the hotel, including the front entry and the pool area. When you’re ready to hit the park in the morning, the hotel has a free shuttle to whisk you the two minutes to the Downtown Disney shuttle stop.
Worth Mentioning: The hotel’s resident Princess Corinne is available for in-room bedtime stories or breakfast wakeup calls Fridays through Sundays. These visits include the princess and her royal page arriving with either a silver service of milk and a special sweet treat for bedtime, or juice and a sweet treat for breakfast. The visit includes a story, an autographed photo of the princess, crowns for each child, and a signed and dated “Royal Certificate of Visit” (The visit costs $75 for 1 to 2 children and $10 per additional child.).
Best Hotel with a Waterpark: Courtyard Marriot Theme Park Entrance
Cost: $400-$600 per night
marriott.com
Located a short walk from the park’s front gates, this hotel features a sprawling water park that’ll make your kids be all, “Disney-what?” (at least for a few hours). That, and its family-centric amenities—including large rooms (some with bunk beds!) shuttle to the park, and a poolside view of the nightly fireworks—make a stay well worth leaving Disney grounds. If you can spring for the one-bedroom, bunk bed suite, you’ll have a two-bedroom apartment, with two bunk beds in one room, a spacious bedroom in another, and a kitchen-ish area with a microwave and mini fridge.
Worth mentioning: If your kids want to use the water park, be sure to make a (required) reservation! Guests are allowed three time slots per day.
Featuring a 30,000-square-foot waterpark, this hotel opened in 2020 and offers large, clean rooms, entertainment for kids, and a free hot breakfast. It’s a bit further from the park entrance (about a mile), so we recommend taking Anaheim Resort Transit (ART), which has a stop in front of the hotel. When you’re not at the park, kids will be happy to spend the day zipping down the slides or the evenings watching a movie on the wall by the pool. As for the rooms, they are all spacious, with family suites featuring bunk beds, a kitchenette, separate living and sleeping spaces, and two separate showers (plus a bathtub).
Worth mentioning: Kids must be at least 44 inches to ride the water slides (and there is a small baby pool for little swimmers).
Best for Littles – Howard Johnson Hotel and Water Park
Cost: $160-$300 per night
Howard Johnson Hotels
If you’re a Disney regular, you’ve probably seen the whirly tube slides of this popular hotel from the monorail, since it sits just on the other side of the fence from the Tomorrowland station. Not surprisingly, Castaway Cove, the hotel’s pirate-themed water park, is the big draw here. The toddler-centric water park offers an assortment of water play features, a 200-gallon drench bucket, and a large curved slide. As for the hotel, which was originally built in 1965 (and which has been updated numerous times since then), it is simple but clean, with cheery rooms that are well-appointed, colorful, and spacious.
Note: Large families will want to opt for the deluxe rooms or suites, which offer bunk beds or “Kid Suites” so that parents can have a bed to themselves.
Worth mentioning: All Castaway Cove water features are shallow enough for non-swimmers to enjoy, so the water park is a thrill for even the youngest of guests. (That said, it’s definitely geared more toward younger kids than older, adrenaline junkies.
Closest Walk To Disneyland – Best Western Park Place Inn
Cost: $329-$359
Best Western
If you’re looking to stay as close as you can to Disneyland while still reaping the cost benefits of staying off-site, this reliable no-frills hotel is just a stone’s throw from Mickey’s realm. Located across the street from the park entrance, all you have to do is wait for the light to turn green and walk 60 seconds to be in Disneyland territory (according to Disney Tourist Blog, it’s a 10-minute walk from the hotel to the turnstile). As for the rooms, don’t expect high-end perks—this is a “budget” hotel, after all—but the rooms are clean and newly renovated, and the breakfast is free. Enough said.
Worth mentioning: If you’ve got cranky kids and don’t want to wait to see the fireworks from inside the park, this hotel’s proximity to Main Street makes it a worthy viewing spot for nightly displays. Book a room facing the street and you’ll even be able to pop over to the window and see the sparkles without even going outside. Otherwise, standing just in front of the hotel works fine, too.
An upscale hotel that opened in 2021, this large modern hotel is a great choice if you’re looking for a more elegant style without compromising on location. Located right next to Disney’s California Adventure, the 618-room hotel is a peaceful respite from the theme park hubbub, with a grown-up vibe that’s markedly absent of toddler-filled splash pads and buzzing arcades (good news for some; not for others). The hotel also offers several upscale dining options, including a Mexican restaurant, a steakhouse, and a gorgeous rooftop lounge with a sprawling view of California Adventure and the SoCal mountains in the distance (you can see the Disney fireworks from here, too!).
Worth mentioning: Even though Pixar Pier is just across the street, you still have to walk all the way around the park to get to the entrance to either California Adventure or Disneyland Park. It’s a 15 to 20-minute walk that can be hard for little legs—so bring a stroller and get ready to crush your daily steps goal.
Best Airbnb – This Disneyland Dream Home – Orange, CA
Cost: $400-$700 per night (varies by season)
Airbnb
Whether or not you’re within walking distance of the park won’t matter when you step foot inside this amazing Disney-themed home that recreates the spirit of the park throughout its whimsical interior. Each of the home’s four bedrooms embodies a different part of Disneyland: There’s a vintage Mickey room (above) that will make you feel like you’ve stepped foot into a black-and-white cartoon; a “Frontierland” room that feels like a woodsy cabin, with a real, working train that chugs in and out of the room on a track by the ceiling; an “Indiana Jones” room, with genie lamps perched on shelves and old maps clinging to the wall; and an “It’s a Small World” room that has the iconic Small World facade painted on one wall and odes to the ride scattered throughout (it also has two bunk beds and a trundle so the room can fit a small world of its own!). There’s also an arcade and theater room that will keep the kids busy for hours.
Worth mentioning: Disneyland may have to wait once your kids see the backyard, which is a tiny park unto itself, with a mini golf course, a ping pong table, swings, a climbing structure, several playhouses, and a plethora of lawn games.
