If your wobbling tot loves to waddle, then a trip to the pond is in order! They’ll get a kick out of watching ducks swimming around and poking their heads underwater with their tails up in the air. Here are six waterfowl-filled spots that don’t just have ducks, but also beautiful spots for family pictures and picnics. Read on to discover local ponds worth quacking about.

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

The prime time to visit this garden is in the spring, when its namesake flowers are in full bloom. Don’t let that stop you from visiting any other time of year, though, for a leisurely stroll. Beautiful curated gardens, and more natural settings, feature all kinds of wildlife, and 94 kinds of birds. You'll walk past three waterfalls on the way down to Crystal Springs Lake, where you can get up close and personal with ducks swimming and waddling along the shore. An admission fee of $4 during peak months is well worth it, and kids 12 and under are always free.

6015 SE 28th Ave.
Online: portlandoregon.gov

photo: Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden by Wendy Cutler via flickr creative commons

Know before you go: Yes, it’s a lot of fun to feed ducks, we know! But the Audubon Society asks you not to, please. Pass along the lesson to your kids, and pass on the loaf of bread.

What’s your favorite place to watch ducks? Let us know in the comments!

—Kelley Gardiner

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