While we know there are tons of things to love about Portland, one of our favorite things is its easy access to nature. Whether you’re enjoying a sunset from a hilltop or lounging in a city river, the great outdoors is always just a hop, skip and a bridge crossing away. Let’s make the most of these sunny days (because the rain will be back before you know it) with a family hike. Our picks for the best hikes near Portland for kids include everything from simple forest strolls to winding rock climbs to waterfalls you’ll want to find right away. Grab your water bottles and load the day pack with snacks—these summer hikes are all short, fun, easy and come with great payoffs.
When it comes to the best hikes near Portland for kids, you don't have to look further than Tryon Creek. Just 15 minutes from downtown, eight miles of trails can be found in this 660-acre park. Summertime means lots of woodland creatures for your kids to spot, and the shade you'll find walking beneath the dense forest trees gives everyone a bit of a reprieve from the sun. We love the paved trails that allow folks of all abilities to enjoy the great outdoors, and make is easy for parents who are looking for a great place to roll with their strollers. If easy is what you're after, it doesn't get any easier than the Trillium Trail that starts at the visitor's center. Add mileage to your outing when you break off along the Old Fir Trail.
One of Portland’s favorite playgrounds is Sauvie’s Island, full of berry picking and beach-going in summer and pumpkin patches in fall. And, you’ll find a great year-round hike at Wapato Greenway, which features a wetland lake, meadows, grassland, and oak trees. Kids will love hunting for snakes (harmless garter varieties), frogs, ducks, and more on the trails. The loop around the pond is 2.2 miles total and is great for kids.
18846 N.W. Sauvie Island Rd. Portland, OR Online: oregonhikers.org
One of the best urban explorations is on the slopes of a dormant volcano. Start at the trailhead by S.E. 64th and Lincoln, near the reservoirs. Then wander at will through the paths and roads. Dirt trails, paved paths, stairs and more wind around the cinder cone volcano, until you arrive at the very top, with fabulous views of downtown Portland and the mountain. A playground is on the north side-access it from Salmon Street or Yamhill, or make your way there by foot.
Situated just outside of Tualatin, Cooper Mountain offers 3.5 miles of kid-friendly trails in a stunning natural area. You’ll get views of the distant Chehalem Mountains while enjoying trails under the canopy of white oaks. The nature park playground offers a play area inspired with natural materials like boulders, tree trunks, a sand pit and more. From the playground, the Little Prairie Loop makes for a great short outing, or extend it up to three miles by connecting to the Cooper Mountain Loop.
18895 S.W. Kemmer Rd. Beaverton, OR Online: thprd.org
The gentle current of the Sandy River flows through Oxbow Park, offering great swimming, fishing or floating. It’s a popular place in summer, but the 12 miles of hiking trails will allow you to beat the crowds. Two big loops wander through the 1,000 acres, with the southern part being the more developed campsites and day-use area, and the northern being less well known. Head to the visitor center for park info and maps. Whichever route you choose, you’re likely to see river bends, meadows, old-growth forests, wildlife and more.
Good to know: Parking is $5 per car. Check the Free Metro Parking Days to save some money (hint: the next one is Aug. 18).
This easy, mile-long trail is beautiful in the summer. It's hard to deny its place as one of the best hikes near Portland for kids when you're walking through old-growth forests with Mt. Hood peeking in and out of view. A strict no-dog policy means that while you can’t take your pooch, you can enjoy seeing plenty of wildlife along the trail. Water breaks at each art bench along the way will delight the kids on this hike. The small park is located in Happy Valley, and isn't very busy even in summer, so it’s a nice out-of-the-way place to explore.
S.E. Boyscout Lodge Rd. & S.E. 147th Ave. Happy Valley, OR Online: oregonmetro.gov
While everyone else heads to Multnomah Falls, you and the kids can take the trail less traveled—it leads to Latourell Falls. Depending on what the kids are up for, you've got two options here. Take a short walk under the old bridge to get to the falls and take some great photos, if you're short on time. But if the family is up to a bit of a challenge, the two-mile loop hike is the way to go. There are some rocky areas you need to cross (as well as four bridges) to get to the upper falls, but if everyone is up for it, the payoff at the end is totally worth the work.
Best hikes near Portland for kids should always include a giant extinct volcano, right? When it's in the city limits, even better. Powell Butte is a beautiful place for a hike, with wooded paths, meadows and perfect views of surrounding peaks on clear days. Starting at the small visitor center kiosk it’s an easy trek to the top on the paved path. There you’ll find a viewing platform pointing out the nine different mountains encircling you, including Mount Jefferson, Adams, St. Helens, and even Rainier. From there, you can follow the hiking trails around the back of the park into the forests, or turn around and wind through the grassy meadows instead. The summit is a 0.7-mile hike, and the whole loop is just under three miles.
If you’re not set on ending at a waterfall, one of the best hikes near Portland for kids in the Gorge is on the Washington side at Beacon Rock. The unique monolith stands tall above the Columbia and offers amazing views of the river and Gorge. The hike is a fun one, too, with lots of twists and turns, stairsteps, railings and a finish that feels like you’re on top of the world. If your little one is likely to bolt, this may not be the hike to try. But for older kids who can stay on a trail (and have some stamina), they’ll love the twisty climb to the top, 850-feet high. At a mile each way, it’s very manageable, even with the elevation gain. Plus, this hike is just a 50-minute drive from Portland along Highway 14 in Washington.
The Wildlife Refuge is a great place to catch the migration of birds in the spring and fall, but in the summer you can still see plenty of wildlife along a beautiful wetland area. In the northern Carty Unit, the Oaks to Wetlands Trail is an easy 2.4-mile loop that passes through oaks, near ponds and around the wetlands. The best sight along the way is the authentic Cedar Plankhouse, a modern interpretation of a traditional Chinookan one. In the summers it’s open most weekends with many special events. The refuge is about 30 minutes north of Portland, near Ridgefield, Washington.
There are so many ways to take advantage of Atlanta’s long summer days. Hitting the local splash pad with the kids, heading out on a bike odyssey around the city, lounging in one of the many nearby lakes. That’s pretty much what summer in the city is all about. But nothing is more quintessentially summer than packing up a picnic and heading to a park. That’s why we’ve found six scenic spots where you and the kids can picnic and play into the evening. All that’s missing is great friends to join you. Here’s where to plan a perfect picnic and park playdate before summer ends.
Just because it's well known doesn't mean there aren't perfect picnic spots just begging for your blanket and basket to pay them a visit at Piedmont Park. We like the Promenade for its easy proximity to the parking deck and Gardens, but if you want to wander, head towards 10th Street and the Eastern-most side of the lake.
This peaceful picnic spot is located part of the scenic Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Its three miles of trails lead to the ruin of a Civil War-era paper mill, surrounded by a forest. The many streams and ponds you'll find along the way provide stopping points for kids to play. After your picnic, set your kiddos loose on the boulders and waterfalls that you can find along the trails.
You won't believe the beautiful rapids and duck ponds at Sweetwater Creek State Park. Located just west of Atlanta this picnic spot steeped in history is just a short drive away. Take a hike to Civil War-era ruins, and during spring and summer, rent canoes, stand-up paddleboards and boats—after you pack up your picnic, of course.
Adjacent to the Chattahoochee, Gwinnett County’s Rogers Bridge Park in Duluth has running trails, an historic steel bridge and ample greenspace where you can enjoy your picnic spread. A small playground nearby and a dog park make this a place where you can eat and play with your whole family (fur babies welcome). And although the nearby tubing launch point is currently closed, you should still bring your water shoes along so everyone can wade in (not too far) and cool off before heading home.
4291 Rogers Bridge Rd. Duluth, GA Online:duluthga.net
While the entertainment district may not fall into the secluded picnic spot category, families will find both plenty of green space and things to do at this popular gathering spot. During the early evening hours, it's easier to find a spot on the sprawling, grassy lawns. Plus the play factors are pretty much unlimited here. Head to the children's playground, splash in the Rings Fountain or take a quick stroll to a nearby kid favorite, like the Georgia Aquarium, Children's Museum of Atlanta or World of Coca-Cola.
Another one in nearby Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, you'll find lots of charming elements that'll entertain the kids on this picnic outing. With a wooden covered bridge, historic remnants of the Roswell Mill and over five miles of trails through a forest and past waterfalls, Vickery Creek promises plenty to do beyond the basket.
Seattle is home to some of the finest museums in the country. But you know what makes them even better? When you can find free or cheap museum days. With summer days in full swing, now’s a great time to get the kids out of the house and save money, too. From Free First Thursdays and Third Thursdays to special deals and discounts, we’ve compiled a list of affordable (read: free or cheap) museum days you’ll want to put on your calendar. Read on to make your next playdate plan at one of our favorite local museums.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum (Bellevue) Children ages 1 and younger always get in free. Active military members (with ID) receive 20 percent off of general admission from Armed Forces Day to Memorial Day. Admission is always free for Gold Star military families.
Within this awesome museum you'll find a water gallery with a toddler specific splash zone, an "On the Go" gallery with a big rig semi-truck cab, a "Sticks and Stones" outdoor gallery, a story tree gallery, a two-story climber, an art studio and a special place for kids up to age 3 to explore, complete with a quiet nursing area. We apologize if you have to drag your kids away at closing time, and remember timed ticket entry is still SOP here.
Seattle Children's Museum (Seattle) Children ages 1 and younger always get in free. Show your qualifying military ID for a $2 discount. The Museums for All rate is $3 per person with proof of participation in the following programs: EBT, CHIP, Provider One or WIC.
Located in the shadow of the Space Needle, the Seattle Children's Museum boasts more than 18,000 square feet of play space for kids ages 10 months to 10 years. There you can find plenty of hands-on exhibits to explore as well as daily educational programs, story times and art activities that are free with the cost of admission.
Kids Discovery Museum (Bainbridge Island) Free first Friday Art Walk from 3-7 p.m. Children ages 1 and younger always get in free. The Museums for All rate is $3 per person with proof of participation in the following programs: EBT, CHIP, Provider One or WIC or foster families. KiDiMu also offers a special Museums for All membership for just $30 annually.
This small but mighty kids’ museum rocks a giant Lite Brite, Mission to Moon, Rigamajig, Nature Microscope, and all the around-the-town exhibits kids can't seem to get enough of like a grocery store, bank and and vet clinic. Plus it's fun to get there by taking a ferry from Seattle. Downtown Bainbridge is also just steps away, as well as the always free Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, so you can easily make a day of it.
Imagine Children’s Museum (Everett) Editor's note: This museum is closed for renovations through August. Keep an eye on the website for the reopening date.
Children ages 1 and younger always get in free. Receive free admission every third Friday of the month from 5:30-9 p.m. The Museums for All rate is $3 per person with proof of participation in the EBT program. Military families receive free admission on various dates throughout the year.
Come to the Imagine Children's Museum where your kids can find fun activities like Art Rocks, i-engineers and Cartoon Corner to keep them busy. If that's not enough, send them exploring throughout Imagine's two floors that come complete with a rooftop playground and a treehouse. It's totally tops.
Hands On Children’s Museum (Olympia) Children ages 17 months and younger always get in free. Pay just $1 to play on the first Friday night of the month. The Museums for All rate allows the first two guests in free (pay $2 for each additional guest) with proof of participation in the EBT program. For qualifying families who want the benefits of Annual Membership, Hands On offers an Access Membership Program for $25.
With more than 150 hands-on exhibits spread over two floors and an Outdoor Discovery Center, you can’t really go wrong at this Olympia museum. Little museum-goers might never want to leave once they spot the Built It! center, Fabulous Forest and the Tides to Trees Climber. And if that's the case, here's how to make a weekend out of it in Olympia.
Children’s Museum of Tacoma Take advantage of pay-as-you-will admission that's always offered when the museum is open to the public (10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 1:30-4 p.m., Thursdays through Sundays.) Member-only hours are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m on Mondays and from from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturdays.
In a space along Tacoma's museum district, this bright and cheery museum boasts a large (and very clean) water table, a fantastically fun art studio, a climbable vessel reminiscent of an airplane-treehouse-fort with a total steam punch vibe and a new arty climber that's challenging for older kids. Check out their low-sensory hours on Fridays, from 1:30-4 p.m. for a quieter playtime if you've got kids with sensory sensitivities.
Burke Museum (University of Washington) 3 & under are always free. Free every first Thursday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Do you dig fossils? Then you've gotta check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. First of all, you'll see scientists at work—they're actually on display. Little white boards posted at the large windows will tell you what they are up to and in same cases, you'll be invited inside. Plus family spaces allow your Littles to climb, crawl, look, touch and ultimately learn as they explore. Kids can climb on an orca whale, investigate a large log, explore a tide pool, board a Northwest Indian canoe, check out a research tent and dress up like animals and see how well they blend in at the "camouflage corner." When hunger strikes, head to Off the Rez for handmade frybread, Indian tacos, wild rice bowls, salads and espresso beverages.
The Museum of History and Industry - MOHAI (South Lake Union) 14 & under are always free with a paying adult; maximum 5 youth admitted per adult. Free every first Thursday from 5-8 p.m.
Bring the kids to South Lake Union to learn about the area's history at MOHAI where all the permanent exhibits are free on First Thursdays. Grab an Exploration Pack (designed for kids ages 3-7) filled with activities, puzzles, books and more or an Innovation Pack (designed for kids ages 7-10), filled with gear, to help kids use creative thinking as they explore the museum. Both are free with adult museum admission, so this means they’re totally free for kids. Don't forget to hit up the Kid-Struction Zone when you visit. It's tops with toddlers. Psst... the free Lake Union Photo Scavenger Hunt is happening this month too.
Klondike Gold Rush Museum (Pioneer Square) Always free for everyone. Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. During the summer, from mid-June through Labor Day, the Visitor Center opens one hour earlier, at 9 a.m.
If you have a family of history buffs, you don’t want to miss this little nugget (see what we did there?) of a museum located in Pioneer Square and close to the International District and its plethora of restaurants. Not too crowded, with Park Rangers ready to answer your questions—this is a fun little museum run by the National Parks (who knew?) right in our backyard.
Seattle Art Museum (Downtown Seattle) Children ages 14 and younger always get in free. The Chase Open Studio and Ann P. Wyckoff Education Resource Center are always free (Editor's note: these spaces remain closed). Free first Thursdays are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
If your kid has a complete art library of their own, The Seattle Art Museum is where you'll want to take them. The museum hosts a variety of family events, although many remain paused due to Covid. Outdoor programs like Summer at SAM give families the opportunity to explore art and nature together. But we know your kids will love the Alberto Giacometti: Toward the Ultimate Figure on display through October.
Henry Art Gallery (University of Washington) Free first Thursdays are from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Every Sunday is free from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. UW students, faculty and staff along with students and kids are always free.
The Henry stokes imagination by introducing kids and families to contemporary art and culture through interactive art experiences. Inspired by current exhibitions, the museum offers family programs that are especially designed for adults and children to consider new ways of thinking while learning and creating together.
Bellevue Arts Museum Children ages 6 and younger always get in free. Students get in free each second Wednesday of the month using the online coupon.
The Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM) helps to engage hands and minds alike with their kids & family programs that include free family days, workshops and more. Imagination Stations are located throughout the museum, allowing you to get hands-on with your own arty ideas.
Seattle Asian Art Museum (Capitol Hill) Children ages 14 and younger are always free. Free last Fridays are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
The recently-reimagined Seattle Asian Art Museum groups art by theme, rather than country, and offers guests expanded exhibit areas, education spots and a lovely walkway that connects this impressive Art Deco building to Volunteer Park's many other amenities. Don't miss the public programs at its Garden Center, which shares a range of artistic expression through performances, films and events with visual artists.
This awesome museum is located on beautiful Bainbridge Island, just a 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle and a five-minute walk from the ferry terminal. The museum offers group visits, lectures and panel discussions as well as a film series, publications and hands-on art experiences for a range of ages and audiences. BIMA has a small but growing Permanent Art Collection including various media such as painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, ceramics, glass, wood, artist’s books, fiber and jewelry art.
Olympic Sculpture Park (Seattle Waterfront) Always free for everyone each day. Park is open 30 minutes prior to sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. PACCAR Pavilion is open each day from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. during spring and summer.
If your kids get squirrely in museums, take them to Seattle’s coolest outdoor art exhibit. OSP is home to awesome sculptures, giant art and interactive beauty. It's also a great way to get your tykes appreciating art without needing to shush them every two minutes. Plus, the unparalleled view (and lots of room to spread out a picnic blanket) is reason in itself to plan a visit.
Frye Art Museum (First Hill) Always free for everyone, Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Check out the Museum's Human Nature, Animal Culture: Selections from the Frye Art Museum Collection, which examines how we use animals to nourish our bodies, carry our belongings and become our companions. While we look at science for solutions to address the climate change that impacts them, we also turn to art to understand our past, present and future relationships with our fellow creatures.
National Nordic Museum (Ballard) Children ages 4 and younger always get in free. Free First Thursday of the month from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
If there’s a Viking in your family, check out the Museum's Nordic Journeys exhibit which is a hands-on, kid-friendly display about the immigration story from the "old country” to the United States, then Seattle and to Ballard.
Northwest African American Museum (Southeast Seattle) (Editor's note: Until further notice, the museum is operating virtually and in pop-ups only until it reopens its onsite operations.) Children ages 3 younger always get in free. Free every first Thursday of the month from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Offers admission by donation days (often coincides with our large community events like MLK Day).
The exhibits and programs at this museum feature the visual arts, music, crafts, literature and history of African Americans in the Northwest. Together with the community, the museum presents and preserves the connections between the Pacific Northwest and people of African descent and investigates and celebrates Black experiences in America. Be sure to keep an eye on their events calendar for special events and programs throughout the year for families, such as interactive storytime and the Knowledge is Power Book Giveaways.
Visit this museum to connect with the dynamic history, culture and art of Asian Americans, native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders through storytelling and experiences meant to advance racial and social equity. Youth ages 10 to 14 years old should check out the free art program Teensway, which explores heritage and community through various art techniques led by teaching artists and museum staff. And keep an eye on the events calendar for upcoming family-friendly events.
Insider tip: Most of the kids' exhibits feature interactive elements such as videos, sounds and games, sure to please your whole brood.
MoPOP is an ever-changing museum offering insights on everything from music, video games, movies, sports and more. While there is something for everyone here, we recommend MoPOP for families with older kids who can appreciate Sci-fi wonders and Fantasy worlds. Just about every kid (and parent who wished that they had become a rock star) will love the Sound Lab where they can actually learn to play different band instruments in a matter of minutes. We think everyone will love the Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibit that just opened in late June.
The Museum of Flight (Boeing Field) Children ages 4 and younger always get in free. Receive free admission the first Thursday of each month from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Discounted tickets are available for active military and veterans, Boeing employees and AAA members.
Check out the Museum's Apollo 17 Lunar Module Ascent Stage Mock-up exhibit where you can land the Apollo lunar module, or walk through a full-sized replica of the International Space Station’s Destiny Research Lab. Weekend Family Workshops offer hands-on experiences exploring science, engineering and aerospace topics for the whole family on Saturdays and Sundays. The Museum of Flight Tower at Boeing Field is always a hit with future airplane pilots, and hearing the King County International Airport air traffic controllers in real-time is pretty darn awesome, too. But the current draw at this area favorite has got to be the Walt Disney Studios & WWII retrospective that will delight both parents and kids.
The Center for Wooden Boats (South Lake Union & Camano Island) Always free for everyone. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Believing that everyone should have access to maritime heritage, The Center for Wooden Boats' Floating Boathouse Gallery (Seattle) highlights four unique and historic wooden boat designs that enjoy a permanent place in the CWB collection. Toy Boat Building classes for kids and adults are offered at the Cama Beach location each Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. And we're all hoping the tugboat storytime and pond boat rentals return to Seattle soon. While we wait, consider renting a free pea pod boat with the kids.
Northwest Railway Museum (Snoqualmie) The Depot and grounds are always free. Railway History Campus is $10/adult, $5/child, ages 2 to 12.
In 1981, the Northwest Railway Museum rehabilitated and restored the Snoqualmie Depot back to its 1890s appearance giving kids a better idea on what travel was like for their grandparents. If you want to go for a ride, Scenic Train Rides take place during special events in July, October and December and on weekends April through October. Moms, dads and grandparents can take advantage of free train rides (with a paying kid) on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Grandparent's Day weekends. View the special events calendar online.
Kids love to watch the hydros during Seafair, but did you know they can visit them anytime? Climb into an actual hydro or just check out all the cool boats and memorabilia on display at The Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum, our nation's only public museum dedicated solely to powerboat racing.
You don’t need a plane ticket to spend your summer days on a gorgeous island with long stretches of sandy beach. Sauvie Island, located just a short 20-30 minute drive from downtown Portland, is about to become your family’s favorite local summer getaway. It features a kid-friendly beachfront, along with and abundance of U-Pick farms with petting zoos, play spaces and more. If you are looking for a spectacular day or staycation, now’s the time to head to Sauvie Island for an epic family adventure that won’t soon be forgotten.
Go Fishing
Nothing says Pacific Northwest fun like fishing! Check out one of the many small ponds or lake areas for practicing your hand at beginner-level fishing. Hit Haldeman Pond, Aaron's Lake, Steelman Lake or Mud Lake for a day of reeling them in. All of these spots provide excellent fishing holes throughout the summer season. Your little angler will enjoy trying their hand at catching the small perch, crappie, and catfish that can be found in the waters of Sauvie Island.
Sauvie island has some of Portland’s best beaches, for good reason. It is close enough for easy access, wild enough to go free (super free if you want—the nude beach is farther up the island!) From May through the end of the summer families can count on Sauvie Island beaches to provide a perfect spot for water and sand play with enough shade and sandy beach area to set up a base camp for a full day away from the house.
Walton Beach is your best bet for a sunny day on the water. Watch for eagles, count cargo ships, build a sand castle, then splash the sand away. It’s a popular spot, but doesn’t feel too crowded—there’s still plenty of room to fly a kite! A $10 daily parking pass is available at the Store right off the bridge to the island.
Collin's Beach: For free-spirited families this particular beach begins about a quarter of a mile after Reeder Road turns to gravel), is clothing optional so you and your kiddos can wear your birthday suit all day long. Just be sure to bring the sunscreen! You don't want to get burned!
LGBTQ families can head even further down Collins where they will find a stretch of beach filled with members of the LGBTQ family. Here too, clothing is optional. So bring the sunscreen and go early enough to grab some shade in advance. Sun umbrellas and tents are advised.
Portland families love to hike, and Sauvie Island features a gorgeous 5-mile moderate and flat trek to Warrior Rock Lighthouse that the whole family will enjoy. Fun fact: it happens to be Oregon’s smallest lighthouse! Stop along the way to look up for bald eagles, Canada geese, swans, and cranes. You may even see sea lions as you walk along the Columbia River! To get there, pass through the entry gate at the end of Reeder Road and follow the trail. There is a porta potty at the trail head as well. For more hiking information, check out All Trails writeup here.
Pick Produce
Get your buckets and bags ready to be filled. The Island is home to several awesome U-Pick farms that your kids are sure to love. This summer, check out Columbia Farms U-Pick for: strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, marionberries, boysenberries, and blackberries. They also seasonally have tomatoes, peppers, flowers, pumpkins, and fall decor items, depending on when you visit. Don't forget to bring containers to place your freshly picked berries in, and maybe a picnic to enjoy at the tables under their gazebo while taking in the scenery. Pro tip: visit the website in advance to find out which berries are in season. They update their site regularly,
Topaz Farm From berry picking to petting animals to buying goodies at the farm store, there's just so much to do when visiting this Sauvie Island farm. Your kids will love picking ripe strawberries and then petting the mini goats and donkeys! It's a perfect pitstop after a day of beach play.
17100 NW Sauvie Island Rd, Portland, OR 9723 503-621-3489 Online: topazfarm.com
Bella Organics Berry picking, wine tasting and delicious eats are all available at this beloved Sauvie Island Farm. You can even stop in their courtyard and enjoy prepared farm products cooked to order and served for consumption on the farm as you enjoy the gorgeous scenery while dining at one of their picnic tables.
16205 NW Gillihan Rd, Portland, OR 97231 503-621-9545 Online: bellaorganic.com
The Original Pumpkin Patch Do not forget to stop at The Original Pumpkin Patch, where you will find the Big Red Animal Barn, which typically has goats, rabbits, and perhaps a turkey or peacock or two. It's sure to get an excited squeal out of your little one. But, that's not all this special spot has to offer. There's a coffee cart that will help you perk up if you are wearing down and a market, gift shop and even a patio cafe.
After all of these activities, you and your little one(s) may be ready for some rest. Settle in for a night or two stay at the family-run Croft Farm, a working fruit, vegetable and honey farm. The Croft's 300 square-foot guest suite is surrounded by acres of farmland and wildlife, as well as a friendly hound dog! Wake up to a view of Mt. St. Helens before nuzzling their rabbits and chickens goodbye and departing back for home, refreshed.
The Details The island takes about 30 minutes to get to via a single bridge from US 30, and another 30 minutes to get across. There are no gas stations there, so be sure to fill up before you arrive. Restrooms can be scarce: most farms have options, many are porta potties. Note that all wildlife areas on the island require parking passes for $10/day, which can be purchased at the Cracker Barrel store just to the left of the bridge when you arrive, or at the Oregon Dept. Fish and Wildlife further down. (The pass is not required to visit any farms.)
Pro Tips Parking: A parking permit is required to park at beaches or natural areas along the island (but not at business parking lots). A daily permit is $10, and an annual permit is $30. Tickets can be purchased online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, most Portland-area Fred Meyer stores, or at The Cracker Barrel Store, located at 15005 NW Sauvie Island Road.
If the thought of an extended road trip has you feeling “meh,” why not take a fun-size vacation and still sleep in your own bed? We’ve found 11 day trip destinations from Seattle that will give your family more than enough to do, so you can stay for the day or a whole weekend. If you’re ready for one last hurrah over Labor Day weekend, gas up the car and read on!
Editor’s note: As things continue to change because of COVID-19, we recommend that you double check your destination to be sure that different attractions are open during this time.
Winthrop is a western-themed town that might be too far for the usual day trip, but if you start out early enough it’s worth it. A walk through downtown will make you feel like you are stepping back in time.
What to Do: You could start stretching your legs with a fairly short hike (on a paved trail) to the Falls Creek Waterfall which is about a quarter mile from the trail head. Or bring your bikes and travel down Susie Stephens Trail with the goal of crossing the Spring Creek Bridge which extends over the Methow River. For a little education lesson, make your way to the Methow Valley Interpretive Center (offering displays related to the original Native American inhabitants of the Methow Valley), the Shafer Museum (giving a glimpse of what life was like in town many years ago) or visit the Winthrop National Fish Hatchery.
When walking in town, be on the lookout for Glassworks of Winthrop where the owner, Garth blows glass and offers a little humor too. The Winthrop Rink offers roller skating during the summer and ice skating during the winter. For mealtime, East 20 Pizza is a favorite with families (where the dough and sauces are made in-house), The Duck Brand is the oldest saloon (and restaurant) in the Pacific Northwest, and don’t even think of leaving town without a stop at Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe to get one of their famous cinnamon rolls, a scoop of ice cream or nostalgic candy for the ride home.
Day Trip Tip: If you’re in town during Memorial Day or Labor Day weekends, be sure to visit the Methow Valley Rodeo which features several events for the kids including a stick horse race!
How far from Seattle: 107 miles (approximately a 2 hour drive)
The Ellensburg Rodeo has been a Labor Day tradition since 1923 and is known for being one of the Top 10 professional rodeos in the U.S.! This is what you'd call a big deal, with something for everyone.
What to Do: At the daily three-hour rodeo shows, each of the seven PRCA sanctioned rodeo events will be seen: bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, team roping, women’s barrel racing and bull riding. If you go on Saturday, you can start off by watching the Western Parade. Your tickets includes same-day admissions to the Kittitas County Fair and the Yakama Nation Indian Village offers free admission too. While at the fair, check out the Frontier Village where you have a chance to watch a blacksmith at work, learn to operate a crosscut saw, buy a soda, a pickle and some nickel candy. The area consists of historic buildings, including a schoolhouse. Dressed in their finest regalia, the Yakama Nation Village tribe opens each night of the rodeo with a traditional dance in the center of the arena. Spectators are often invited to join in the dance. Inside the village itself, you'll find about 25 to 30 teepees with more than 75 people participating to make your experience one to remember.
Ellensburg Rodeo 609 N. Main St. Ellensburg, WA 98926
Kittitas Valley Event Center 901 E. 7th Ave. Ellensburg, WA 98926
How far from Seattle: 80 miles (approximately a 1.5-2 hour drive)
There is so much to do and explore at Deception Pass with its sweeping views of Puget Sound, mountains, evergreen trees, sandy beaches, sand dunes, rocky hills, peaceful lakes and so much more. Of course, your kids won’t appreciate it all until they have to go back home. Or if getting back to nature isn't your thing, check out the Oak Harbor Music Festival (just 8.8 miles further).
What to Do: Plan to park near the Deception Pass Bridge and walk across for a spectacular view. You will need a Discover Pass to enter the 4,134-acre park. The park has the distinction of being placed between the fresh water Cranberry Lake (which has its own swimming area with a large dock to swim out to) and the salty Puget Sound. There are many hiking, biking and even horse trails that wind through the park, but for families with small children who would rather just stroll, take advantage of the paved nature trail which starts out in a heavy wooded section and then suddenly opens up to a view of the Sound and large sand dunes (which is also a great place for kids to play in).
The sandy beach is also a great place to practice your balancing skills on the logs or look for sea shells. And the park is a great place for clamming, crabbing and fishing and boasts plenty of picnic spots and easy restroom access. Be sure to pack swimsuits and towels even if you don’t plan to get wet because it’s hard to resist not jumping over the waves. Plan time to visit the Civilian Conservation Corps Interpretive Center in the Bowman Bay area of the park. Originally built in the 1930s, the building is now home to a museum cared for by the Washington State Parks staff. (Note: the center has been closed due to COVID-19, so double check that before you go.)
The Oak Harbor Music Festival (September 3-5) offers three days of free concerts plus a variety of arts and crafts booths and food vendors in Downtown Oak Harbor. Two stages performing music starting at 6 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Day Trip Tips: Want to save some money on parking? Plan to explore the park for free on a Discover Pass Free Day. Upcoming dates are: Aug. 25, Sept. 28 and Nov. 11 & 26, 2021.
Crystal Mountain Resort: Experience the Mountain Without the Snow
Allison Sutcliffe
How far from Seattle: 82 miles (approximately a 1.75-2.25 hour drive)
We often forget that mountain passes can still be as fun to visit during the summer as they are during the winter, and Crystal Mountain Resort is one of the best.
What to Do: Start off by riding the Mt. Rainier Gondola that will transport your family to the 6,872 summit of Crystal Mountain in about ten minutes. Do we really need to mention that you’ll see sweeping views of Mt. Rainier and the Cascade Range? This experience can make your ho-hum picnic lunch into something spectacular or you can plan to have lunch at the Summit House Restaurant. While at the top, plan on taking part in one of the fairly easily interpretive hikes led by a forest ranger.
Day Trip Tips: The Mount Rainier Gondola is open June 21-Sep. 1. View the hours here. Since the weather can change dramatically with the elevation, plan to dress in plenty of layers and wear comfortable shoes.
How far from Seattle: 30 miles (approximately a 30-45 minute drive without traffic)
Here’s an excursion that parents and grandparents who are fans of the old TV show and reboot will go crazy over, while pretending to be looking at the waterfall. Located just a short drive from the little town of Snoqualmie, Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington state’s most popular scenic attractions. And there's a good reason why. The 270-foot waterfall is impressive! The Falls also boast a two-acre park, gift shop, observation deck and gorgeous Salish Lodge & Spa.
What to Do: At the visitor’s site for Snoqualmie Falls, there's a short sidewalk trail that will give you a good view of the majestic falls and will impress even the toughest pint-sized critics. The site is right next to the Salish Lodge & Spa where the former (and new remake) of Twin Peaks was filmed. Psst! Go inside the Lodge’s gift shop to find some Twin Peaks swag. Then, take a trip into the city of Snoqualmie to check out the Northwest Railway Museum. While you're there, consider taking a 75-minute excursion on the historic train for another view of the Falls and the Upper Snoqualmie Valley. The historic train ride is old, rickety and kids love it! On your way home, stop by Twede’s Café in North Bend (also known as The Double R Diner) for a slice of Twin Peaks cherry pie alongside a “damn fine cup o’ coffee!”
Day Trip Tips: The Northwest Railway Museum is located at 38625 S.E. King St. with trains departing daily. Special schedules and fares are usually offered on Father's Day Weekend, Day Out With Thomas, North Bend Festival, Snoqualmie Railroad Days, Labor Day Weekend, Grandparents' Day, Halloween and Christmas.
How far from Seattle: 135 miles (approximately a 2.5-3 hour drive)
Surrounded by beautiful mountains, Leavenworth is a small Bavarian-styled town that doesn’t skimp on the theming. Most of the architecture here is meant to look as if the buildings were plucked from Bavaria and then placed in Eastern Washington. And it's hugely popular any time of the year. Summertime is great with its hot dry weather, of course, but so is the fall with its changing leaves and Oktoberfest celebration; spring brings new budding flowers and wildflowers galore and during the winter, this place is decked out with thousands of Christmas lights. Since Leavenworth always seems to have something to celebrate, it makes for a great place to visit year-round.
What to Do: Leavenworth is very family-friendly. Bavarian music plays throughout the town (often live!) and many of the local shopkeepers dress in traditional “Bavarian wear.” Traditional food can also be found around every corner...not to mention the many ice cream and candy shops that line the streets. Psst! During the summer months, you can find art shows on the weekends at the Front Street Park. The town is also designed to be walkable, but if the tots get tired, you can always board the trolley that comes by every so often. And if all this isn’t enough to impress your petite posse, Leavenworth also boasts a handful of parks, swimming pool, miniature golf, arcade, movie theater and even a pump track to enjoy.
What to Do: The park offers a number of different trails and kid-friendly tours to give every family a chance to see Mother Nature at its finest without wearing them all out–unless of course, that is your goal. If you’ve never been, you might be surprised to learn that some trails are fairly short (1.5 miles long), paved and are often led by forest rangers. For families who want a little extra oomph with their visit, consider taking in a geocaching treasure hunt. But whatever you do, don’t leave the mountain without making a stop at the Sunrise Visitor Center set on the highest point of the mountain that can be reached by car. This awesome visitor center is full of interesting facts and interactive displays about mountains, glaciers, animals, wildflowers and more.
Day Trip Tips: Weather conditions can change quickly, so plan to dress in plenty of layers and wear comfortable shoes. Also, be sure to grab a snack and a souvenir from the gift shop located at Paradise Inn. And add a Mt. Rainier Park pass to your list of must-haves on this trip. You can get one online or grab it from the ranger station on the way into the park. Entrance fees are waived on August 25, September 25 and November 11 of 2021.
Mount Rainier National Park 55210 238th Ave. E. Ashford, WA 98304 360-569-2211 Online: nps.gov
How far from Seattle: 21.5 miles (approximately 1.5-2 hour drive including ferry ride)
With a little planning ahead of time, you can take your family on their own Amazing Race to Poulsbo. It's a mini adventure just waiting to be taken!
What to Do: First, board the Bainbridge Ferry in Seattle and be sure to take the kids to one of the ferry's decks to feel the wind blow through their hair and get a good look at their surroundings. Once on the other side, the cute little town of Poulsbo is just 11 miles down the road.
Poulsbo has a proud Norwegian heritage, though the town isn’t as themed out as Leavenworth. Still, there is a little bit of everything for everyone here. There are lots of shops to visit in downtown Poulsbo, outdoor activities like kayaking around Liberty Bay and a Sea Discovery Center to explore as well as taste-testing real Lutefisk and ice cream shops and eateries for stopping at on the way back to the car. Psst! Time your visit during one of the town's many festivals for even more family fun.
Day Trip Tips: Visit the Washington State Department of Transportation ferries website to start planning this day trip. And while in Poulsbo, be sure to explore the many parks the city has to offer (15 city parks, totaling 137 acres!) as well as plan a stop at Sluys Poulsbo Bakery for a sweet treat or afternoon pick-me-up. The quaint, family-run bakery offers breads, donuts, cookies and pastries along with coffee, a perfect accompaniment for the trek home.
How far from Seattle: 47 miles (approximately a 1.5 hour drive)
Those who have visited Wallace Falls often go back again and again. The hikes are fun and the waterfall is majestic. And the popular, well maintained path along the Wallace River has all the bells and whistles for a fantastic family outing.
What to Do: Of course, the main attraction here is the 265-foot tall waterfall where the view just gets better the higher you go on the trails. However, the downside is that the higher you go, the harder the hike is, so this is an experience for families with older children and physically fit parents. One trail is shorter, but also steeper while the old logging trail is fairly easy, but longer. Psst! Groups of hikers often go up one trail and come down the other to get the full experience. After you and your crew are good and tired and back at your car, drive a little further to Gold Bar and stop at Zeke’s Drive In for an iconic Zeke’s Burger and a milkshake. It's definitely the cherry on top of this family outing. Zeke's is located at 43918 State Route 2 in Gold Bar.
Day Trip Tips: A Discover Pass is required for parking, so plan to purchase one before you head out. If you're lucky, you’ll find a ton of wild blackberries ready to be snatched up on your trek. And while at the Falls, be sure to stay on the marked trails as the hills can get pretty slippery.
Wallace Falls State Park 14503 Wallace Lake Rd. Gold Bar, WA 98251 360-793-0420 Online: parks.state.wa.us
South Everett & Mukilteo: Planes, Trains & Ferry Boats
How far from Seattle: 28 miles (approximately a 30 minute drive without traffic)
In just one day, your family can experience the making of an airplane, learn how trains work and travel across the sea.
What to Do: Start your day off with a Future of Flight and Boeing Factory Tour to learn the dynamics of flight, experience new aviation innovations, design your own airplane and learn how planes are made. Then, tour the Boeing Assembly Plant inside the world’s largest building. After you've had your aviation fix, travel to the Mukilteo Ferry Dock (which is less than 15 minutes away) to board the ferry for a round trip tour (about 45-60 minutes). Psst! Before boarding the ferry, consider grabbing a quick fish and chip’s meal at Ivar's Mukilteo Landing outdoor fish bar. After your ferry ride, head back towards Downtown Everett to visit the Imagine Children’s Museum where your kids can touch and explore the Museum's awesome exhibits and check out the Monte Cristo Railroad and Railway Collector Train display.
Day Trip Tips: If you and your crew still have energy, stop off at the Funko Headquarters for a pop culture explosion and enjoy a gourmet pizza at Major League Pizza. (The Boeing Factory Tour has been closed due to COVID-19 so be sure to double-check before going.)
Future of Flight and Boeing Factory Tour 8415 Paine Field Blvd. Mukilteo, WA 98275 425-438-8100 Online: futureofflight.org
Seattle Center: How to Have Fun for Little or No Money
Okay, so what if you want to get away for the day, but you don’t want to drive far and you don’t have a lot of cash to spend? Believe it or not, there is a lot to see and do for free (or virtually free) right in our own backyard at the Seattle Center.
What to Do: First of all, plan your outing during one of the Center’s celebrations which are held every month. You and your kids can learn a thing or two about different cultures and enjoy authentic music, dance, art and more – all for free! Then, travel around the grounds and really see all of the wonderful artwork, sculptures, water fountains and plants that you are usually too busy to see when rushing to a show or museum exhibit. Be sure to make a stop at the Artist at Play playground near MoPOP, it's a must-do and will keep the kids busy for a long (long!) time. After they’ve worked up a sweat, bring them over to the International Fountain to cool off while you sit back and enjoy the music and laugh at the crazy people getting soaked down below. Psst! Don't forget to stop by the Armory for lunch or an afternoon treat and be sure to bring your camera for the endless photo opps. If you're feeling flush, take your crew to the top of the Space Needle to take in the Emerald City from the new revolving glass observation deck that's 520 feet above or take the Monorail to downtown Seattle for more adventures.
Day Trip Tips: Street parking is usually cheaper than the parking garages. Want to turn this into a bigger adventure? Consider taking the bus. Or better yet, go on a Sunday when street parking is free. And even if you don’t plan on buying anything, be sure to visit the gift shops at MoPOP and the Space Needle. They often have lots of fun Seattle-centric trinkets to look at and you just might find that one thing you didn’t know you needed!
Seattle Center 305 Harrison St. Seattle, WA 98109 206-684-7200 Online: seattlecenter.com
There’s nothing quite like a day at a U-pick farm that gets the kids excited about fruit. These farms near Dallas offer apple picking in the fall, berries and peaches in the summer, and even sunflower and lavender picking. Pack up a picnic basket full of your favorite snacks and get the kids ready for a day of fruit picking!
Apple Valley Orchard—Llano
Jennifer Young
This 32-acre farm grows apples, berries and more out in Llano, TX. Check their Facebook page for u-pick updates.
12340 S. Highway 16 Llano, TX Online: facebook.com
Majestic Farms
Head to this farm in early summer for pear and plum picking. Did you know that pears are one of the only fruits that need to ripen after they've been picked? We didn't either! Check the farm's website before you head over as they'll indicate which fruits are ready for picking and whether they are closing early due to high temps.
You can also find them at the Hillsboro Farmer's Market.
Blueberry and pumpkin picking happen at this too-cute farm in Rockwall. Blueberry season runs in early summer and October brings pumpkin season. This year you can find everyone's favorite square pumpkin, Spookley, at Blase Family Farm.
If strawberries and pumpkins aren't the best combination, we don't know what is! Head to Price Farms in spring to pick your fill of strawberries, and then come back in the fall for pumpkin season.
This picturesque spot was originally a melon and strawberry farm, but has been selling lavender, cut flowers and herbs since 2006. Head out and visit the two acres where you'll find a cafe serving lavender treats as well as a shop with soaps and other lavender-scented items. Check their Facebook page for current hours before you head over.
This peach orchard is 10 miles North of Bonham, TX on Hwy 78, about 90 minutes from Dallas. The peach-picking season runs from May-July and the best spot to find information on their picking status is on their Facebook page. In addition to peaches, they also grow blackberries and plums.
Blackberries and blueberries are the name of the game at this North Texas farm. They also have fields of sunflowers blooming in July. If you want to cut flowers, bring a jar or large container and scissors. Their outdoor farm market sells jams, jellies, veggies seeds, and more.
Closed for the 2023 season, the Texas Tulip Farm is a spring destination for DFW residents. Over six acres of brightly colored tulips, a hay maze and the opportunity to pick your own beautiful bouquet are all part of the fun when you visit.
10656 FM 2931 Pilot Point, TX 76258
Ham Orchards - Terrell
One of the most popular farm destinations in DFW, you can pick your own raspberries at Ham's at the beginning of the summer while also being able to buy some of their famous peaches all the way until mid-August. There's plenty of other fun to be had: a browse through the general store, a BBQ lunch and enjoying some soft-serve peach ice cream are a must!
11939 County Rd. 309 Terrell, TX 75161 Online:hamorchard.com
Swap screen time for the wide-open spaces at The Morton Arboretum. They’re welcoming a breathtaking new exhibit, Human + Nature, May 28 and the kids can explore the Arboretum’s gigantic treehouse, build rock and stick dams in the creek or run through mazes, while also gaining an educational experience. Read on to hear how this mega park helps develop a passion for nature and fills those long summer days with low-key exercise and enormous smiles. Bonus cherry-on-top: A day well-spent at The Morton Arboretum almost always ends in a solid nap time.
Human + Nature Exhibit
Created exclusively for The Morton Arboretum, Human + Nature is South African artist Dennis Hopper’s first major U.S. exhibition and the largest to date anywhere in the world. The 5 sculptures range from 15-26 feet tall and include an interpretation of the female form, diverse facial traits interwoven with root structures and large-scale human hands. These are meant to represent the Arboretum as a place where trees are nurtured and protected, that conservation efforts require many hands working collaboratively and nature is best experienced with all senses engaged.
The deeper meaning of each of Hopper’s pieces is intentionally left open-ended to encourage creativity of thought and self-exploration of how we co-exist and interact with nature. He believes leaving some things to the imagination is where the magic and true connection to art happens.
The natural seasonal transformation of the Arboretum’s grounds provide an ever-changing backdrop for the exhibit. Two more sculptures are scheduled for construction in Jun. 2022.
Feed Your Adventurous Side in the Children's Garden
The highlight of the arboretum for parents with children under 10 is the award-winning, five-acre interactive Children’s Garden and hedge maze, a nature lover’s paradise. Ten themed gardens, bursting with interactive and learning-based play, keep kids on the move and engaged while they're checking out various ecosystems that exist around the world. Kids can spot birds, turtles, frogs, squirrels, chipmunks and dragonflies in the Adventure Woods and the Backyard Discovery Gardens. They can put their bare feet in the stream and feel the smooth rocks, climb up rope bridges and pretend to be pirates in the tree houses. All they need is an imagination and a sense of adventure.
Not only are children safe and secure within the boundaries of the Children’s Garden, but extraordinarily friendly and knowledgeable volunteers and staff mill about the area, welcoming conversation and offering guidance.
Make the Most of Summer at The Arboretum
Morton Arboretum
Morton Arboretum knows filling those long summer days can be a tall task when your kids expect you to play camp counselor. They give an assist on filling the agenda with more than 100 summer camps that immerse kids in nature and outdoor adventure. On Wed. nights, Jun. 1-Aug. 24, the Arboretum welcomes families to Arbor Evenings for live music, kid-friendly fare and entertainment after-hours under a canopy of trees.
The Arboretum also has 9 miles of paved tree-lined roads for biking and bikes are available to rent.
Host a Party in the Children's Garden
Morton Arboretum
The upper deck of the Children's Garden picnic area provides the perfect fair-weather venue for your next private party. Available April-October, the venue allows for outside food to be brought in or offers in-house catering and add-on themes like Enchanted Garden, Bug Bash, and Party Animals and Arboretum-coordinated favor bags help make the day special.
Annual Events to Have on Your Radar
Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum always has fun up its sleeves with seasonal and holiday events around every bend. We've listed a few of our favorites they've hosted in the past, but check their website for different events and programs that might strike your fancy.
Enchanted Railroad (held in Jan. & Feb.) — Marvel at a world of tiny enchantment and watch on as an intricate mini model railroad winds through a magnificent scenery. This two-level interactive display of tree collections from around the world is specially designed for the kiddos because it's meant to be viewed from just two feet off the ground.
Breakfast with the Bunny (held Easter weekend) - You’d be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful place to spend a gorgeous spring day than Morton Arboretum. Fill your tummies with a tasty springtime buffet featuring a visit from the roving Easter Bunny doling out treats to each kid.
Summer Beer Tasting (Jun. 25) - Twenty local craft breweries will be serving seasonal and flagship brews, ciders and meads.
Glass Pumpkin Patch (held in October) — Shop and admire a stunning array of glass-blown art at the Arboretum's annual Glass Pumpkin Patch. Explore a dazzling collection of hand-blown glass pumpkins and autumnal and farmer's market-themed designs in mesmerizing colors, shapes and sizes.
Cider and Ale Festival (held in October) — Savor hard cider and seasonal beers from local breweries and cideries while listening to live music. Bring a lawn chair and breathe in the crisp autumn air among the trees.
Illumination: Tree Lights (held November-January) — For the holiday season, The Morton Arboretum glows with lights, sights and sounds that transform a Chicago-area wintertime walk in the woods into a colorful, inspiring experience like no other.
What Else Will You Find at the Arboretum?
Maria Chambers
The Arboretum is comprised of 1,700 acres of space, which includes 16 miles of trails, 500 acres of plant collections and specialty gardens and 900 acres of woodlands, prairies, meadows, lakes and streams. Families can ride on the Acorn Express Tram to cover serious ground, hike or bike. Visitors are able to take part in the great outdoors as well as contribute to a non-profit science, research and conservation organization that plants and protects trees for a healthier world—how cool is that?!
Good to Know: For Families with Special Needs
Morton Arboretum
The Arboretum offers map-based tools to help guests on the autism spectrum and their families plan a visit that fits their needs. The books are available for loan at the Visitor Center on a first-come, first-served basis.
Morton Arboretum 4100 IL Rte 53, Lisle Online: mortonarb.org
Not everything went sideways in 2020, but there were enough challenges to our normal lives that we can confidently say that 2021 is going to be the year to celebrate a return to normal. Which is insanely wonderful. Keep reading for the top things we’re looking forward to in 2021.
Sending Our Kids to School
While some districts and all private schools have figured out the magic system to allow kids return safely to the classroom in 2020, thousands of families experienced a very different (virtual) reality. It’s fair to say that we’ll all—parents and kids, alike—cherish the first day of school in 2021.
Birthday Parties
While we were pretty genius during the pandemic with our quarantine-friendly birthday parties, it’s fair to say that the idea of sending out an invitation to every kid in your child’s class (plus siblings!) is really, really refreshing.
Going to the Beach During Holidays
With the summer holidays, spring break, and fall breaks turning into a should-we-or-shouldn’t-we situation as it related to Covid, the idea of having a normal trip to the beach—whether on the 4th of July or October 15th—is thrilling.
Visiting with Loved Ones Everywhere
One of the hardest things of 2020 was the separation we felt—from neighbors, friends, and especially family. We can’t wait to find ways to spend time together as multigenerational families in 2021.
Going to a Concert
Family-friendly music festivals, live music on patios, or even the (gasp) rare date night that ends in a dive bar with great live music is definitely on our radar this coming year.
Attending a College Football Game
Soooo, we’re in Atlanta, which means everyone reading this probably went to a different college. But. While we can’t agree on our favorite teams, we can agree that it’s hellafun to support them by going to a game, instead of rocking the 2020 version of paper football at our kitchen tables. And in 2021, we’re all hoping for the best seasons ever.
Going into the Office (Really)
Right. So. Weird, no? We really do actually, maybe, kind of miss the water cooler talk, the closed door (without anyone naked and 2 feet tall barging in demanding Froot Loops), and the structure. We know everyone’s totally killed it at working from home in 2020, but we’re pretty sure that 2021 is going to mean epic times in the office.
Going to the Movies
Popcorn. Buttery popcorn. Reclining seats. Darkness. Noone needing you. The movies. Can we all just take a moment to imagine how great it will be to pay an arm and a let in the movie theatre for a new release?
Taking the Kids to a Performance
Remember The Fox? Cobb Performing Arts Centre? The Alliance Theatre? There are so many incredible live-performance options in Atlanta that there’s no doubt we will be buying season tickets for many of them in 2021.
Meeting Family & Friends at a Restaurant for Brunch
While we may never feel comfortable sitting in a crowded atrium waiting to be called to a table for our party of 12 again (let’s be fair… that wasn’t that fun, anyways), we are looking forward to a new year with possibilities for dining—even during the busiest part of the day—with our kids, somewhere fun.
Attending Assemblies—School, Church, & Even, yes, Work
While it may take a little getting used to, it’s going to be awesome to know where the belts and shoes are to every kid (because you use them weekly, at least), so that you can head right on over to a school assembly, a church service, or to a family-friendly work function. Being together in a crowd, even for a loose assemble, is kind of going to rock.
Planning a Trip and Expecting It to Happen
Oh, 2021, please, please be the year that we can book a trip with no concern over whether travel bans will be in place when it’s actually time to get on a plane. We’ve loved our drivable destinations, but sometime’s a family’s gotta fly.
Our series, Family Tales, is an honest peek into the daily lives of families across the country who are on this crazy ride we call parenthood! From divulging childcare costs to breaking down family finances to managing a virtual school year with multiple kids, we tap into the Red Tricycle army of parents to find out how they’re making it work. This series is a judgment-free zone.
Interested in telling your story? Start by filling out our questionnaire here. All stories are anonymous.
Our New Normal (with 8 Kids) Is Not as Chaotic as I Thought It Would Be
Name & Occupation: Jennifer Swartvagher, Social Media Editor, Facebook & Twitter at Red Tricycle/Tinybeans
My partner’s occupation: Technical Solutions Architect
City: Wappingers Falls, NY
Grades my kids are in: daughter in 10th, daughter in 9th, daughter in 6th and son in 4th. They go to three different schools and are attending virtually. I also have four older children living here and away from home (working/attending college). My 24-year-old lives and works in NYC, my 19-year-old trains as an aerial skier at the Utah Olympic Park in Park City, UT and my 18-year-old is a freshman at the Rochester Institute of Technology. My 22-year-old works at her alma mater and lives at home.
What is your current schooling situation: This summer our school district, which is the largest in our area, decided it would not be feasible for students to go back in person 100 percent and I totally agreed. Parents had the opportunity to decide if we wanted our kids to stay entirely remote for the first semester or go back hybrid on a staggered schedule by grade. Those who chose hybrid would go back 2 days a week (either M/T or Th/F) depending on last name. We still aren’t clear if students will attend live lessons on the off days or if it will be strictly asynchronous.
Hybrid K-2 supposedly starts next week and more grades will be introduced weekly until high school goes back at the very end of October. We chose to keep our kids 100 percent remote for the first quarter, but we have no idea what that looks like once hybrid learning starts. Will the kids stay with their current teachers or will they have their courses switched? If we choose hybrid later on down the road, will they change teachers again? New revised bus schedules were released yesterday and start/finish times have been adjusted for hybrid with some schools starting at 9:25 am. I don’t know what any of this means for us but I try not to dwell on the unknown.
When we were thrown into distance learning last spring we were drowning. The makeshift desk we set up in between the dining room and living room was not going to cut it going into the new school year. Last spring, Google meets were missed, Zoom calls for work were interrupted and everyone fell behind on their assignments. We literally handed in one of my son’s major assignments on the last day of school (It was assigned a full month before.) The ball was literally dropped over and over again. Thank goodness my daughter’s aide was able to step in (virtually) when I became too busy with my job. Without live instruction, kids with special needs like my daughter would fall through the cracks without extra support at home.
In order to have a successful school year, things had to change and they needed to change drastically. My kids needed a quiet place dedicated to school and they needed more attention than I could offer while working full-time. A new family room/school room was our priority and I needed to have some hard conversations about my role at work. We bought a desk, transformed the family room into a classroom and I transitioned to a part-time position.
My sixth grader has had severe pulmonary issues since she was a few months old when her O2 plummeted into the 40s and she needed to be airlifted to the nearest children’s hospital. My fourth grader was born at 24 weeks, spending the first few months of his life on a ventilator. They both suffer from bronchitis and pneumonia at least twice a year. This paired with my sixth grader’s unique special needs makes returning to the classroom a very scary prospect.
Early Morning: everyone’s more relaxed without a commute My alarm goes off at 6 a.m. and then again at 6:10 a.m. I (try to) drag my butt out of bed to have some quiet time with Hoda Kotb and Al Roker before the school day begins. The teenagers get up around the same time, put on a full face of makeup and start making their breakfast of lattes and avocado toast while I ponder which pair of black leggings to wear. The little ones are enticed out of their beds by the promise of “Little Bites” or frozen waffles. Miraculously everyone is ready to go by start time and I am so happy we have such a short commute downstairs. This is the first year that we aren’t plagued with “Monday Morning Malaria.” No one suffers from before school tummy aches and everyone is happy to sign on for classes. All of our school anxiety from the past is gone. I am afraid it will return when we go back to school two days a week.
Morning: My kids need constant supervision, which reinforces my decision to remain at my job part-time Everyone heads downstairs around 8 a.m. and we settle in at our workstations. I make sure everyone has their Google Classrooms keyed up while I check my emails. My husband works from home but has multiple meetings each day, so he stays upstairs where it is quiet. Sometimes one of the kids will grab their laptop and set up shop next to him at the dining room table, especially if they are getting distracted or have a test to take.
The high school girls sign in to their first classes at 8:10 a.m. They meet with each of their teachers for eight 25 minute periods of live instruction. Classwork and homework is posted to be completed after the school day ends at 12:05 p.m.
My fourth grader has his morning meeting at 8:25 a.m. The class says the pledge of allegiance every morning along to a video of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. I often tell him to hurry up because “The Rock” is waiting for him. The fourth graders put in a full day moving from class to class (or Google Classroom to Google Classroom). This is the first year that they are switching classes, so they have one teacher for math, science and social studies and another for reading and writing. The teachers present the lessons and then the kids break off and complete their classwork on Google Classroom. I usually bring down single serve snack bags and water bottles to give to my son when he starts to get antsy. Some days he works straight through but there are days he needs some encouragement or a fidget to keep him focused. I purchased an exercise ball for him to sit and bounce on when he really needs to get his wiggles out. I’m seriously considering some alternative seating options for him.
This is my sixth grader’s first year in a self contained classroom. She is extremely lucky to have looped up with her teacher from last year. Last spring when remote learning started, my daughter floundered, needing constant support throughout the day. She signed on with her aide daily to help power her through her lessons.
This year she is surprisingly self sufficient, to the point that she does not want my help. I am not sure if it is the new structure of her class, the live lessons throughout the day or if it is her love of computers that keeps her focused and working hard. She has actually expressed to me that she prefers learning online to being in the classroom. Her sheer drive to learn this year paired with her special health needs makes me think I will keep her remote all year if I have the choice. I have to take into consideration the related services she receives each day, but I think I can provide most of the additional support she requires.
As I said, she knows her way around a computer better than most. I have caught her logging into YouTube or Roblox on her breaks and losing track of time, but that has only happened when I was distracted or out of the room. I am researching ways to block those sites during instructional hours. The need for my constant supervision reinforces my decision to remain part-time.
Afternoon: We stick to their schedules Everyone breaks for lunch at a different time. The week before school started I created an area in the kitchen with cubbies to store quick and easy snacks and lunches.
Since they all know how to use a microwave, I can (mostly) work through the lunch hour(s) without too much worry.
After lunch, the older girls settle in to finish their homework while I make sure the little ones get back on their live lessons on time. I almost have each schedule committed to memory but I have all four schedules written out and color-coded on a large dry erase board over the desk. I also have a separate calendar to keep track of which cycle day it is. Our district runs on a six day cycle. Now since distance learning began, Monday is Day 1, Tuesday is Day 2, Thursday is Day 4, Friday is Day 5 and Wednesdays alternate weekly with Days 3 and 6 just to keep us on our toes.
Right now, the little ones are finished with school between 3:05 p.m. and 3:25p.m. When hybrid learning starts their schedules will be altered to accommodate the students going into the classroom. My sixth grader’s school will start and end an hour after my fourth grader.
Evening: It’s off to the dance studio and then dinner After putting in so many hours in front of a screen, I encourage the kids to put down their laptops and play a game or go outside. The kids participate in socially distant, masked dance classes in the evenings. We are at the dance studio four days a week. The kids enter the studio and have have their temperature taken before class. They are dismissed 10 minutes early so the studio can be disinfected between classes. I either drop off or wait in the car depending on how long their classes are. Between the four of them, they take 11 classes. The dance studio is our home away from home and I really miss the adult conversations and friendships I’ve made there. We still do connect but it’s not the way it used to be. You may think it sounds crazy but the studio has become a part of our family. That’s probably the only reason I trust them with my kids during this time.
I am trying to use my crockpot more and plan out meals, but I haven’t been as successful as I had hoped. I even hung up a meal planner in the kitchen, except before last week it had the same menu on it that I planned back in July. My goal is to spend a little more time on meal prep on the weekends, and to get the kids involved. They tried to come up with a meal plan that kicked off with Marshmallow Mondays, but I quickly squelched that idea. It’s truly a work in progress.
We do indulge in the family dinner special from our favorite Italian restaurant in town once a week (it’s on the way home from the dance studio.) We’ve ordered Chinese food more times than I’d care to admit and sometimes I throw pizza bites in the oven and call that a meal. My kids are just as happy with a can of soup as they are with a home cooked meal, it just depends on the presentation.
End of the Day: Accepting to expect the unexpected Every day I serve as a teacher, an aide, a speech therapist, an occupation therapist, a physical therapist, a counselor, a writer and a mom. This year I don’t feel that my daughter is falling through the cracks because of her special needs, in fact, I feel that the past few weeks have been among the best of her academic career. She is reading more, talking more and advocating for herself more. The child who hated reading is finishing books quicker than I can supply them. She wants to learn how to code, she wants to create new things and she is even planning on starting her own business. We are teaching her how to create a business plan and budget her money. We even held our own version of Shark Tank where she convinced the investors (me and my husband) to give her a business loan. Her lessons are going beyond the classroom and if she was physically in the school building all day she wouldn’t have the time or energy to devote to these other projects.
My high schoolers have shown how responsible they are with getting managing their schedules and getting their assignments in on time. They have also been instrumental in helping the little ones navigate Google Classroom when I am busy with work or on a meeting. Spending all of this time together in close quarters has strengthened their relationships. They still argue (a lot) over silly things like who is chewing too loud, but I know they have each other’s backs no matter what. My husband and I are still working at managing our schedules while remaining available during the school day. Although it is hard, and we’ve needed to make sacrifices, we know having them home is worth it in the long run.
Our plan is to reevaluate hybrid versus remote learning quarterly and accommodate each of our children’s needs on a case by case basis. The older ones may go back, the little ones might stay home, we may not go back until spring or we may stay remote for the entire academic year. If this past year has taught me anything, I have learned to expect the unexpected and make the most of the time the kids are home with me.
You might think that every single vacation rental upstate, or in the Catskills, or in the Berkshires (or anyplace else leafy, green, cooler and quieter) is booked for the summer, but you’d be wrong! Yes, a lot of families have headed out of town for part of the summer after a long spring of sheltering in place, but you can still find a kid-friendly vacation rental near NYC. We found several in various vacation spots in New York State, as well as Massachusetts, the Poconos and beyond. Some are fancy, some are rustic; some lakeside, others in small towns. So unplug, take a hike, jump in a lake and chill at one of these family-friendly vacation rentals for Summer 2020! (Note: rates and availability fluctuate so may have changed since publication.) P.S. Check to see if you’ll be near our list of places where you can see a drive-in movie this summer!
As mentioned, lots of places are booked, so the bulk of availability is in August—some of these places may be getting snapped up right now. But people are still cancelling and changing plans, so things do open up. Additionally, new listings do pop up.
Before you fall in love with a place, make sure kids are welcome (it will be noted if they are not), and check out past reviews for previous renters' experience.
Finally, be mindful of any COVID-19 travel restrictions (coming from New York, you should be OK), and don't be shy about asking about cleanings between guests. Some listings even address cleaning protocols between rentals.
For a Berkshires Fairyland (With a Ping-Pong Table)
The scene at The Santarella Estate and Gardens is nothing short of magical, with its gorgeous grounds featuring garden paths, a babbling brook, stone bridges, a lily pond, and two acres of woods with loop trail. (Very Hobbit/fairy-friendly here.) These unique accommodations feature a spiral staircase up to a canopy queen bed, a kitchenette and large bath, and a connected studio space with sitting area, wood pellet stove, and ping-pong table. (The couch converts to a full-size bed for two additional guests, for which there is an additional charge.) (Note: if this spot is booked, there are other properties on site.) Listed for $238/night + additional guest fee.
With enough room to sleep 10, this three-bedroom, two bath lodge will fit your big family or pod. If you like a ski chalet or woodland vibe, this is the place for you, with rustic wood accents and cozy furnishings. Across the street from Lake George, it's also near the beach, hiking trails and town so you're near civilization, but still in the calm of the country. Listed for $275/night.
Escape to this cottage in the woods in Woodstock, New York for a respite from the city. This two-bedroom has a recently renovated bath, an airy master bedroom, gas grill and patio for outdoor meals and air conditioning. Walkable to city center, it's near area attractions as well. Listed for $172/night.
With lots of room and funky farm accents (plus an impressive lending library!) this circa 1815 renovated barn in Berkshires sleeps eight and even has a gourmet kitchen for meal prep. Other reasons to book this place?: swimmable brook (that you can also fish), outdoor cedar-lined shower, fire pit and near Mount Greylock and other area attractions. Listed for $255/night.
Located on the 43-acre site of a former Girl Scout camp, this three-bedroom retreat sleeps eight and offers private access to a nine-acre lake. Fish, boat, sit by the fire pit, go rafting on the Delaware River, and then retreat to the glass-walled studio in the woods (!) for some serenity. Minimum five-night stay. Listed for $190/night.
Get comfy at this Finger Lakes cabin that offers all things summer: grilling, lakeside fun and fresh air. The Cayuga Lake rental sleeps five, and yes, you can bring the dog! Listed for $300/night.
Located in a Poconos private community known as The Hideout, this recently renovated three-bedroom two bath chalet has a huge porch, kayaks, new gas grill and other amenities. Renting here also grants you access to the community's pool, beaches, golf courses, sports complex and more. Listed for $166.67/night.
Head way upstate to this 1870's stone house near Keuka Lake. This three-bedroom, two bath house sleeps five, has views of the lake and is a quick drive into the nearest town if you need provisions. Listed for $350/night.
This charming three-bedroom, two bath house in Saugerties is a short walk to stores in town but also near local outdoor recreation spots for hiking, biking, boating and more. Bonus: it's got queen bunkbeds (!) and it's pet-friendly! Listed for $280/night.
This stylish little cabin is on a property with fresh water streams, but is also 12 miles from groovy Northampton for when you need some action. It sleeps four, and is the place to really unplug—there's no internet, and even cell service is a bit spotty. Listed for $240/night.
Like that natural wood look? You're gonna love this place, 'cause there's a lot! A three-bedroom deluxe lodge that sleeps eight, this rental also has a full-on game room and pond for fishing (or just relaxing and watching the frogs). Listed for $270/night.
Take in nature's splendor from the hot tub of this funky two-bedroom home, then head out to the nearby nature preserve or state park for hiking, fishing, biking and more. Listed for $189/night.
Located on private land on the shores of Lake Moc-A-Tek, this two-bedroom house would make for a peaceful respite. Take the row boat out on the water, do some fishing, fire up the gas grill and relax around the fire pit. The public beach is a 10-minute drive away. Listed for $205/night.