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25 NC Attractions for families and other cool things to do with kids in North Carolina.

Maud — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 03:19:03 +0000

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25 NC Attractions for families and other cool things to do with kids in North Carolina.

July 8, 2024
Beach Vacation, Fall, Outdoor Adventures, Road Trip, Spring, Summer, USA / Canada, Winter

What is North Carolina famous for? People often mention the beach in the Outer Banks and the bucket-list-worthy hikes in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, but this East Coast state offers many more attractions for families. You will find historic sites, great zoos, museums, and other fun family-friendly places to visit. This makes North Carolina a staple for summer family vacations amongst GoWhee members.

With so many places to choose from, we wanted to create a guide that showcases both iconic and unique things to do for kids of all ages, of course, all selected by parents themselves, so you can capture the quintessential NC attractions for families.

What is the number one attraction in NC for kids?

It is a hard question to answer since families are all different! But here is a compilation from our members of unique things to do in North Carolina when you travel with kids.

Asheville Best Gems Store Credit Lewis Coast 2 Coast

Asheville Best Gems kids finding gems Credit Lewis Coast 2 Coast

Asheville Best Gems rocks store's fossil Credit Lewis Coast 2 Coast

Asheville Best Gems buckets of gems Credit Lewis Coast 2 Coast

Asheville Best Gems educative elements Credit Lewis Coast 2 Coast

26 Sardis Rd unit 100, Asheville, NC 28806

1. Mine For Gems in Asheville At This Unique Store

Come for a shopping spree but stay for the educative experience! Asheville’s Best Gem Mine is a little store run by a local couple with a real passion for teaching children and adults about gems. Every bucket is guaranteed to contain precious and semi-precious stones. Families particularly love that you can dig gems and dinosaur bits too!

General Information: Buckets of gems start at 16$. Public parking is available across the street. The place can be quite busy on weekends so be prepared to wait a bit but the staff is great at entertaining the kids. Families recommend this place for toddlers and up.

Insider Tip: One bucket of gems is enough for 2 kids to play and enjoy the experience.

Giraffe Deck feeding Credit North Carolina Zoo

Elephants Credit North Carolina Zoo

Bubbles Credit North Carolina Zoo

Polar bear Credit North Carolina Zoo

Kidzone Stream Credit North Carolina Zoo

4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC 27205

2. Get Face-to-Face with a Giraffe at This Conservation Zoo

Located less than a 90-minute drive from Charlotte, the North Carolina Zoo offers tons of experiences for families loving animals. If you’d like to get up close and personal with a giraffe, parents recommend getting tickets for the Acacia Station Giraffe Deck. These gentle giants will come right up to nibble on the lettuce leaves you can offer them.

General Information: This activity costs an extra $5 on top of the zoo admission (starts at $11). You can find food onsite and also bring your picnic. Families usually spend half a day at least and prefer the morning since you can see more animals.

Insider Tip: The giraffes will not be in this part of the habitat when the ground is wet, so plan on doing this on a sunny day. The park is huge so come prepared for little kids and good shoes for everyone. For a downhill and easier walk, parents recommend parking in the Africa parking lot, taking a tram to North America, and starting your visit there. You will then end your visit back at the Africa lot and will not have to wait for a shuttle with tired kids at the end of the day.

Linville Caverns entry outside credit Lewiscoast2coast

Linville Caverns rock formation Lewiscoast2coast

Linville Caverns entry sign credit Lewiscoast2coast

Linville Caverns rocks credit Lewiscoast2coast

Linville Caverns ADA path Credit Lewiscoast2coast

19929 US-221, Marion, NC 28752

3. Tour Caverns With Incredible Rock Formations

If you love to see something different and stay cool on hot summer days, take one of the tours of the Linville Caverns. These are the only caverns in North Carolina open to visit. You can see stalactites, stalagmites, and other incredible rock formations. The tour is great for kids since it is pretty short (about 40 min) and very educative.

General Information: Entry is $13 for adults and $11 for kids. The caverns are only open from March to November. For wheelchair users, the good news is that there is a portion of the caverns that is accessible. Make sure you use the bathroom outside BEFORE the tour if you are on the last tour of the day.

Insider Tip: Take jackets because it can be quite chilly and wet in the caverns. Note that tickets have to be bought onsite since you can’t reserve online, so make sure you get there early to buy your tickets even if you plan on visiting later during the day. Strollers are not allowed so make sure you bring the baby carrier!

Plan your trip with a travel app designed for parents!

Check out the world map here. You can find family-friendly places like museums, playgrounds, restaurants with kids play space, hotels with family rooms, even a local pediatrician just in case!

Best part, places are selected by parents like you!

No. 12 Crossing the Trestle Credit Tweetsie Railroad Wild West Theme Park

Mini Swing Credit Tweetsie Railroad Wild West Theme Park

Deer Park Credit Tweetsie Railroad Wild West Theme Park

No12 Fall Foliage Credit Tweetsie Railroad Wild West Theme Park

Entrance Credit Tweetsie Railroad Wild West Theme Park

300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605

4. Ride In A Piece of Local History at this NC Amusement Park

The Tweetsie Railroad Amusement Park is a fun park with a Wild West theme and gorgeous mountain views, listed in the National Register of Historic Places. You can enjoy classic roller coasters, train adventures, southern vintage live entertainment, a petting zoo, and other family-friendly attractions. Families with young children recommend this place because rides are great for toddlers too.

General Information: Admission is $60.00 for adults and $40.00 for kids 2 and older. There are a few food options onsite, but you can bring your picnic as well. Restrooms with changing tables are available onsite and they have a private room for breastfeeding by the first aid station. Most of the parks and attractions are wheelchair and stroller accessible, but be aware of hills due to terrain.

Insider Tip: Families recommend taking a trip down history by riding one of their coal steam engine trains on a 3-mile Wild West experience. Make sure to sit on the right side to get the best views! Parents also recommend heading there during the fall for their autumn activities and the beautiful foliage in the mountains.

Nascar Hall of Fame Building⁠ credit Tad Caudill

400 E M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28202

5. Be a Race car Driver for a Day at this venue in Charlotte

Located in the heart of Charlotte, NC, the NASCAR Hall of Fame offers the perfect family fun day for fans of race cars and non-fans alike. The Hall of Fame showcases both cars and historical facts about car racing and provides some great educative and interactive exhibits related to the sport like a fun digital experience where you can build your race car or test your skills in the pit and learn what it takes to be a NASCAR broadcaster!

General Information: Adults’ admission starts at $27 but we recommend you to check their cool packages with simulators if you are into a more hands-on experience. The whole place is wheelchair accessible including major attractions like the simulators. They have a little cafe and parents report that the food is pretty good there. Parents report spending between 3-5hrs onsite.

Insider Tip: If you have more than 2 kids make sure you look at their family membership since simulator attractions are included in the price and you get buddy passes. Perfect for large families. Although this is a great place for teens, little kids will enjoy the pit crew challenge for some hands-on fun and see the real Lightning McQueen!

Yellow Brick road character meet credit landofoznc.com

Chair Lift credit landofoznc.com

Yellow brick road credit landofoznc.com

Live show credit landofoznc.com

19929 US-221, Marion, NC 28752

6. Enter the Land of the OZ Exclusively at This Closed Theme Park.

Happening only once a year during September (see dates here), this unique experience is a must-do with kids in NC according to local families. The whole experience is held in the original (closed to the public since the 80s and became a private resort) Land of the OZ theme park, located north of the Smoky Mountains. The experience is brought back to life in the fall each year as the “largest OZ festival in the world”. Families can enjoy all the crafts activities themed on the story, and travel through each iconic part like the farm, the emerald city, the tornado, and the yellow brick road. Character meets and photo opportunities are of course part of the adventure.

General Information: Admission is $60 for everyone aged 2 and above. The original theme park is ancient and has no provision for accessibility, or allowing strollers so plan on bringing your baby carrier. The festival has a lot of food options available.

Insider Tip: The location is remote in the mountains so come prepared and dressed up for cooler weather. Once parked you will need to take a chair lift to the park, but if kids or adults are not comfortable with that, the resort offers a shuttle so make sure you purchase your tickets in advance.

North Carolina transportation museum credit nctransportationmuseum.org

Polar express event with kid credit nctransportationmuseum.org

Day out with Thomas event with kid credit nctransportationmuseum.org

Fireworks event credit nctransportationmuseum.org

1 Samuel Spencer Dr, Spencer, NC 28159

7. Go Back In Time at the NC Transportation Museum

Perfectly located halfway between Greensboro and Charlotte, the North Carolina Transportation Museum is a fun way to experience the local railroad and transportation history. This living museum’s unique roundhouse was built inside an old train station and offers a ride on a 1924 train turntable, antique fire truck tours, and even a replica of Thomas the Tank Engine. Your family can discover what life was like for the people who worked on trains and many other temporary exhibits and events throughout the year like their summer fun days. Don’t forget to get an up-close look at the Wright Flyer replica and learn about the first powered flight at Kitty Hawk!

General Information: Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for kids. The site is fully wheelchair accessible, including the train ride. Changing Tables are available in the bathrooms in multiple spots. There is a vending machine for snacks but no real restaurant onsite so come prepared. We recommend to make use of their picnic areas.

Insider Tip: Parents recommend visiting during the cooler season since buildings can get stuffy and hot. Since it is a living museum, parents are warned to be on alert with little kids for moving trains. They have a great sensory-friendly map that will give you quiet areas for low stimulation, all the distances and walking time between each exhibit as well as the parts of the museum where active trains are present. This location is part of the ASTC program for free admission.

Best way to choose where to stay in North Carolina

North Carolina offers an array of interesting, quirky places to stay in the mountains, as well as vacation rentals specially designed for kids. Families recommend to check things like this airbnb with a whole lego theme.

This content may contain affiliate links, if a purchase or booking is made, we may earn a commission. This does not affect our content integrity nor decision to add or remove a location from our editorial content.

Best Places For A Rainy Day With kids in North Carolina

The state is famous for its outdoors, so what to do on a rainy day or high heat index in NC? We’ve got you covered… literally!

Pirate boat marbles kids museum Credit LewisCoast2coast

Science exhibit marbles kids museum Credit LewisCoast2coast

hands on exhibit marbles kids museum Credit LewisCoast2coast

Toddler area marbles kids museum Credit LewisCoast2coast

201 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601

8. Interactive Play For Infants, Toddlers, and Kids at this museum

Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, Marbles is a nationally renowned children’s museum full of fun, interactive exhibits where kids can use their imagination to play, create, and even get a little messy. Parents love that older kids can do some hands-on activities like using real tools while families with infants and toddlers have their own dedicated space to crawl and play in the baby area.

General Information: Entry is $9 for kids and adults when bought online. They offer sensory-friendly days with special accommodations for children with SPD. There is limited food onsite but you also get in-and-out privileges to grab lunch downtown. Changing table in the bathroom. Make sure you reserve your ticket in advance since it is required. Parking is free on weekends in the park deck near the park or you will have to use street parking.

Insider tip: Plan at least half a day playing here and families recommend to try the pirate ship and the farm. Make sure you buy tickets in advance online because they can be sold out and will not go over capacity. They also offer free entry for Bank of America customers on the first weekend of the month.
This museum is part of the ASTC program for free admission.

Artspace Artists Credit Artspace.com

Artspace classes Credit Artspace.com

201 E Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601

9. Discover local arts at this cool studio in Raleigh, NC

Artspace is a freestyle and immersive art gallery grouping small art studios with working artists. You can just come in, walk through to check each studio, and visit their permanent exhibitions, but it also hosts Kid-friendly art classes and cool teen-friendly events like their “sip and stitch” class. During the year, this indoor location in the heart of the city offers an open studio with a monthly rotation of art activities for kids aged 5+ perfect to take a creative break from the heat or the rain.

General information: Completely FREE access to both the exhibitions and the open studio but you need to register. They have a strong commitment to inclusivity and welcoming ALL families. The whole space is wheelchair accessible with automatic doors, an elevator, and accessible bathrooms. For parking, you can get a space for FREE out front for 2 hours or paid lots around the center.

Insider Tip: During the summer the space replaces its art classes with art camps, so make sure you check their schedule. Parents recommend visiting the space on the first Friday of the month to see all the studios open and meet the artists or on other days if you want a calmer atmosphere. For kids needing a quiet space or sensory amenities, you will find an open playroom with a calm corner, dimmable lights, and sensory backpacks on request.

Biltmore Estate House audio tour credit: Lewis coast 2 coast

Biltmore Garden Credit Lewis Coast 2 Coast

Biltmore Farm Credit Lewis Coast 2 Coast

Biltmore Playground Credit Lewis Coast 2 Coast

Biltmore Park Credit Lewis Coast 2 Coast

1 Lodge Street, Asheville, NC 28803, United States

10. Visit the Biltmore Estate with a family-friendly Twist.

The Biltmore Estate is a staple in North Carolina, it is often presented as more of an adult experience with complimentary wine tasting and ornated decors. The main house is indeed better for older kids, BUT if you have younger kids, GoWhee members are sharing their best hack! They recommend planning your visit around the Antler Hill Village and the grounds. Kids will love the playground, crafts demonstrations, and the farm. The estate “ground ticket” is much cheaper and you still get to enjoy this unique atmosphere, outdoor views of the house, the wine, and over 20 miles of beautiful kid-friendly trails.

General information: The grounds-only tickets range between $50 and $85 when purchased online and include parking (10 min walk to the main house). Kids under 9 years old are FREE. There are multiple places to get food onsite and picnics are allowed in certain areas. Bathrooms have changing tables. Be aware that the grounds are uneven and may be difficult in some parts for wheelchairs, we recommend bringing your jogging stroller if possible.

Insider Tip: Families recommend planning a whole day to visit the place at an enjoyable pace. Parents also share that teens and school-aged children can still enjoy the visit to the main house by listening to the 90-minute audio tour narrated by a dog. And don’t forget to bring bikes (or rent them) since you are allowed to use them throughout the estate.

GoWhee’s Responsible Family Travel Pledge

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Free Attractions For Families Recommended by Local Parents.

Is there anything better than FREE fun? We don’t think so! Here is what local NC parents recommend when you want a budget-friendly trip in the coastal state.

Duelling dinosaurs North Carolina Nature Museum of Sciences Credit Lewiscoast2coast

Jaw North Carolina Nature Museum of Sciences Credit Lewiscoast2coast

Entry of the North Carolina Nature Museum of Sciences Credit Lewiscoast2coast

Skelleton North Carolina Nature Museum of Sciences Credit Lewiscoast2coast

11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601

11. Investigate Dueling Dinosaurs at this museum.

The five stories North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh should be on your list If your child likes animals, nature, or Dinosaurs. It is the only place in the world where you can see fossilized Dueling Dinosaurs of a tyrannosaur and a triceratops going to battle. The NCMNS is also known for its famous Living Butterflies Conservatory as well as for offering tons of hands-on and interactive exhibits about local animals and other science subjects.

General Information: Entry is FREE with donation-based participation and parking is free on the weekend in the nearby lot. They have a little cafe with snacks and sandwiches on the fourth floor. They provide tons of accommodations for different abilities and sensory processing, as well as free wheelchairs and a completely accessible building.

Insider Tip: Parents recommend planning one to two days to make the most out of it. If you have little kids you may want to skip the 3D movie. And note that hands-on exhibits are located mainly on the 2nd floor and 3rd floor.

Reed gold mine mining experience Credit Lewis coast 2 coast

Reed gold mine in tunnel Credit Lewis coast 2 coast

Reed gold mine entrance Credit Lewis coast 2 coast

Reed gold mine park Credit Lewis coast 2 coast

Reed gold inside the mine Credit Lewis coast 2 coast

9621 Reed Mine Rd, Midland, NC 28107

12. Walk Through A Gold Mine.

Located less than an hour from Charlotte, the Reed Gold Mine was the first site in the U.S. where gold was discovered. Today, visitors can pan for gold or take a self-guided tour of the visitor center with educative exhibits about the mining process, as well as visit the inside of America’s oldest gold mine. Families recommend checking out their calendars and visiting during reenactment days if possible, it is a lot of fun!

General Information: The center and mine are FREE, and you can pay $3 to pan for gold. The center and some of the trails around the property are accessible, the mine trail is accessible for the most part but there are stairs at the end so you will have to return where you came from. Gowhee members have reported bathrooms with changing tables and some food onsite.

Insider Tip: The mine is very dark, so little ones might need reassurance so make sure to take some layers with you. The gold panning activity is weather-dependent and seasonal so make sure you check your weather app before going.

2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607

13. Take a Family-Friendly Art Museum Tour

The North Carolina Art Museum is located on the outskirts of Raleigh and is the perfect spot to enjoy a free afternoon with kids either indoors or outdoors, especially for families loving the arts. With their rotating exhibitions about ancient arts, native American arts, or even thought-provoking displays, this museum caters to the whole family, but every weekend, kids aged 5 to 11 years old can join lively discussions and playful activities in special 30-minute tours designed for them. They also have special exhibits and events for teens.

General Information: Tours and museum admission are both free for all. Parking is also complimentary. Changing tables are available in bathrooms. For accessibility, the buildings and some of the grounds are completely accessible, and some parts of the park are not due to the natural terrain’s incline. The museum is committed to providing accommodation for all abilities including diverse children, vision and hearing impairments, and wheelchair users.

Insider Tip: The museum also has a park with 164 acres, of trails and an art display, as well as some natural habitats, so make sure you plan on staying the whole day to enjoy that toot. Don’t forget to grab the kids’ bikes (or rent some) since you can use those to explore. Parents also recommend splurging and eating lunch there since their food is part of the experience. Also, make sure you check their calendar if you want to stay away from major events held there.

Traveling to North Carolina on a Budget?

Don’t forget to sign up for AZA and ASTC programs. These reciprocity programs get you free admissions or discounted tickets to many attractions throughout NC and all over the country.

What are the best hikes for kids in NC?

Outdoorsy Families this is your little corner! With beautiful state parks North Carolina is a dream for little hikers, here are the best trails for kids according to our community.

Dry Falls overview Credit skiserge1

Behind the fall Credit Lewiscoast2coast

14. Adventure Behind A Waterfall

Located near Highlands, NC in the smoky mountains, Dry Falls is one of the few waterfalls that walk safely behind. The hike leading to the fall is about a 5-minute walk and is perfect for tired kids or little ones wanting some wow factor without extensive physical activity.

If someone in your family, can’t make it down the steps, they can still enjoy the fall from an accessible viewpoint deck.

General Information: The trail is FREE but you will pay $3 for parking. There are bathrooms onsite but they are port-a-potty so no changing table or sink.

Insider tip: The trail can get slippery so watch for active little kids. In high season it gets very busy, so go off-peak hours. This is also a great spot to visit during the winter!

Clingmans Dome paved trail observation deck credit Kirk Thornton

Clingmans dome trail credit Lewis coast 2 coast

Clingmans Dome view credit Jennifer Burk

15. Clingmans Dome Paved Trail

Adjacent to the Tennessee border, this half-mile paved trail is a great way to reach breathtaking views. Parents recommend it for older kids and teens because the incline is pretty steep. Experienced little hikers could handle it since there are plenty of benches along the way to rest.

General information: Free although a $5 Smoky Park parking sticker is needed. Portapotty is on site but not the cleanest and only available by the gift shop so come prepared. Because of the incline, we do not recommend this trail for wheelchair users or stroller riders. Dogs are NOT allowed on the trail.

Insider Tip: Make sure to check the weather since views can be obstructed by clouds or fog.
Parking gets very busy so make sure you start this hike early. The temperatures change dramatically up the trail so bundle up the kids or bring a jacket.

Sunset view on Lake Junaluska credit Ccarswell

Arial view of Lake Junaluska credit Kruck20

Rose walk Lake Junaluska credit digidreamgrafix

Playground Lake Junaluska credit Ccarswell

Kids playing Lake Junaluska credit Ccarswell

16. The Rose Walk loop at Lake Junaluska

Located half an hour from Asheville, this lakeside trail offers the perfect setting for hiking with kids of all ages, with mountain backgrounds and 3 miles of paved, flat path surrounding the water. A portion of that loop is named the “rose walk” after its beautiful rose bushes blooming in the spring, the path starts and finishes with a coffee shop offering sweets and kids can enjoy a playground mid-way making it the perfect boost for little hikers.

General information: Free with a suggested donation box in the pool area or you can donate online. We recommend parking by the Junaluska gift shop and coffee shop. The trail is completely accessible. There are some shaded picnic areas and tables along the trail.

Insider tip: The trail can also be extended when you turn right after crossing the Turbeville bridge, but a portion of that extension is by the highway so gowhee parents recommend sticking with the inside loop and going left. Also, be aware of geese that could be aggressive.
Bring fishing rods if your kids are into it!

Chimney Rock State Park Credit carli

Tunnel Chimney Rock State Park Credit carli

Animal encounter Chimney Rock State Park Credit carli

431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720

17. Chimney Rock State Park

From an easy trail to an observation deck for first-timer little hikers to a more challenging path to a waterfall for more experienced and older children, this state park has something for everyone. They are trying to make the whole experience fun for kids with an array of family activities around nature and the hikes. The star of the show is of course the giant rock formation sticking out of a mount on top of the village, looking like a chimney, that gave its name to this spot. Families can either undertake the challenging 500 steps up to the top to see the rock or take the elevator.

General information: Tickets are $17 for adults and FREE for kids aged 5 and under. You can come for FREE on your birthday with an ID. Bathrooms, a gift shop, and a little cafe are available at the top. Dogs are not allowed on the elevator so make sure to be prepared to climb the stairs if you bring a pet.

Insider tip: Fences along the trail can look a bit unsafe so practice caution with little kids.

Strollers can’t be used so come prepared for younger kids. But parents share that it is well worth the hike to see this cool waterfall featured in “The Last of the Mohicans”. Families also recommend checking out the interactive animal shows if you can.

Visiting kids museums and indoor places?

When visiting indoor play spaces for kids, don’t forget to bring your disinfecting wipes. It is an easy way to keep viruses at bay, especially for toddlers. Check out this great list of travel tips to make your life easier as a parent.

Fun Outdoor Attractions For Families in North Carolina

Want a break from climbing mountains, but need to keep things outdoors? Here is GoWhee’s selection of fun outdoor attractions great for kids.

Uno Black Bear Credit WNC Nature Center

Phoenix Red Panda Credit WNC Nature Center

Happy girls with otterCredit WNC Nature Center

Raccoon Credit WNC Nature Center

Black bear WNC Nature Center credit Lewis coast 2 coast

75 Gashes Creek Rd, Asheville, NC 28805

18. Meet an American Black Bear

With over 60 species of animals including their iconic Black Bear, the Western North Carolina Nature Center is not your traditional zoo but a real conservation center. Many of the animals are native to North Carolina but are rarely seen by people. The center is shaded with lots of trees and offers multiple nature playgrounds for kids to fill their sensory needs during the visit. You can also meet, pet, and feed farm animals.

General Information: Tickets start at $13.95 for adults and $9.95 for kids. The center works hard to make sure the experience is as inclusive as possible for all. Most of their paths are paved or are boardwalks great for wheelchairs and strollers. They also provide sensory sensitivity bags and quiet zones for kids with SPD (sensory processing disorders).

Insider Tip: Bring quarters to buy animal food from the vending machines to feed the domesticated animals. This animal center is part of the AZA and ASTC program for free or discounted rates. If your kids love scavenger hunts, don’t forget to print the page before you go.

Pisgah National Forest path and waterfall credit Sean Pavone

Pisgah National Forest sign credit sshepard

Pisgah National Forest bottom of waterfall credit Michael Kelly

Pisgah National Forest trail credit James Robert Smith

19. Take a Dip in this State Park Swimming Hole

For unforgettable summer and natural entertainment, families recommend heading down to one of the many state parks North Carolina offers. The Pisgah National Forest and its 60ft tall Looking Glass Water Fall. is one of those beautiful trips perfect for staying cool in the hot southern state’s summer days. You can see the waterfall from the observation deck or get down the stairs to get to the swimming hole down the river. If your family feels up for it, some parents recommend taking the hike for 6 miles (round trip) through a shaded trail to get to the top of the fall for gorgeous views.

General Information: This spot is FREE and dog-friendly. You will have to park for free along the street. Due to the stairs leading to the waterfall, this is not suitable for wheelchairs and difficult for strollers.

Insider Tip: This spot gets super busy, so arrive early. There are a lot of stairs to get to the bottom. If you still want to hike but can’t commit to the 6-mile hike, check out the John Rock Trail (1.5 miles) leading to another smaller waterfall.

Grandfather Mountain Mile high swinging bridge Credit: Lewis coast 2 coast

Mile high bridge⁠ Credit Christopher Kakavitsas

Mile high bridge⁠ bird eye view Credit themorra

Grand father mountain zoo credit Lewiscoast2coast

2050 Blowing Rock Hwy, Linville, NC 28646

20. Swing a Mile Above the Ground

If you take a trip to Grandfather Mountain, located less than an hour from Boon, you need to stand on the Mile High Swinging Bridge! The structure is an entire mile above ground and can offer some great thrill, especially during a windy day. Parents also mention that the picturesque backdrop makes the perfect spot for family photos, so bring your camera! You can visit the Wilson Center a great discovery place with a museum and zoo for an educational experience about North Carolina’s natural history.

General information: Tickets should be purchased online and are $20 for adults or $10 for kids. The bridge is good for strollers and wheelchair accessible, with an elevator to reach the bridge. The center has bathrooms and food.

Insider Tip: Make sure to visit the zoo at feeding time and check the center’s programs since they have cool interactive activities for kids. Families recommend to plan to spend the whole day there. Weather is pretty temperamental up there so make sure you pack for all weather conditions, even in summer days. The best tip for families is also to plan this visit during foliage season!

Wild horses on the outer banks beach credit zimmytws

Close up wild horses credit Sir_Eagle

4WD vehicles credit MrBlack

1312 N Beach Access Rd, Corolla, NC 27927, United States

21. Take a Day Trip to See Wild Horses

North Carolina’s Outer Banks is a hot destination for its beaches, but visitors forget to mention the unique ecosystem that can only be found here. This ecosystem allows for wonderful animal interactions like one with the mystical wild horses. This experience is only available with a special vehicle like on a 4WD guided tour or open-air Hummer tour.

General Information: Tours are an average of $90 for adults and $50 for kids and you should plan for 2 hours plus driving time. Families report that there are no bathroom breaks so come prepared! And it is not adapted to kids under 40lbs.

Insider Tip: You must bring a car seat for kids under the age of 8 or 80 pounds, and kids can’t sit on parents’ laps. It is illegal to feed or approach the horses so make sure you keep kids close by.

Sliding Rock Credit Balashark

22. Slide in a natural river slide

Sliding Rock, an iconic 60-foot slide, is located near Charlotte. Parents love the natural unstructured feel of the place while having lifeguards and organization in place to keep the whole family safe and comfortable. Families recommend this fun activity for kids not afraid of the cold water!

General information: You will pay $5 per person to enter and the site is open 7 days a week from 9 am to 6 pm, weather permitting. The parking lot can fill up quickly but extra spaces are available along the highway. The site is dog-friendly, but strollers and wheelchairs can’t access it. Parents mentioned bathrooms and changing rooms onsite.

Insider Tip: Parents recommend avoiding peak hours noon to 4 pm and trying to head over during the week. The place is not suited to hang out so don’t plan to picnic (they are forbidden) or relax with bags and kids there. Think about bringing a life jacket and water shoes for little ones to be at peace.

Visiting the outer banks?

Make sure to check out this list made by seasoned beach goers filled with ideas to make your life as a parent easier.

Noteworthy Stops For A Road Trip in North Carolina

23. Downtown Park in Cary NC

327 S Academy St, Cary, NC 27511

24. The World‘s largest frying pan

510 E Main St, Rose Hill, NC 28466

25. The Blowing Rock

432 The Rock Rd, Blowing Rock, NC 28605

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27 Fun Things to do in Pennsylvania with kids recommended by parents

Maud — Sun, 12 May 2024 16:51:11 +0000

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27 Fun Things to do in Pennsylvania with kids recommended by parents

Pennsylvania is the perfect place for family-friendly weekend getaways. Its variety of kid-friendly activities ranges from outdoor adventures in the mountains to city day trips and historic sites like the Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. At GoWhee we pushed the discovery a little further and gathered a list of favorite things to do in Pennsylvania with kids recommended by local parents.

Fun Thing To Do In Pennsylvania That Are Also Educational

Here are our recommendations for things to do when your want your trip to be cultural and engaging.

Railroad Museum credit wonderswithinreach

Railroad Museum accessible credit wonderswithinreach

Railroad Museum mini moviescredit wonderswithinreach

Railroad Museum train display credit wonderswithinreach

Railroad Museum exhibit credit wonderswithinreach

1200 9th Ave, Altoona, PA 16602

1. Play in a caboose at the Railroaders Memorial Museum

Railroaders Memorial Museum is an excellent place to visit for train-loving children. One of the rare museums in the United States that focuses on people instead of the train themselves. The kids will especially love the caboose that they can play in right out front.

General Information: Entry starts at $12 and is Free under 3 years old. The site has hands-on exhibits for school-aged kids. Bathrooms are equipped with changing tables onsite, and it is mostly wheelchair accessible.

Insider Tips: You can visit both the museum and the Horseshoe Curve with one single ticket so parents recommend visiting that site first. Families spend about one to two hours onsite.

Heritage Discovery Center Johnstown PA Credit jaha.org

Heritage Discovery Center children museum Johnstown PA Credit jaha.org

Broad St, Johnstown, PA 15906

2. Discover America Through the Eyes of an Immigrant

The Frank and Sylvia Pasquerilla Heritage Discovery Center in Johnstown PA, is home to a variety of fun experiences, including the America: Through Immigrant Eyes experience. This museum offers a unique insight into the life of Polish immigrants from their departure to their hard-working life in the U.S. Exhibits are interactive and even hands-on. With a full 1900s neighborhood replica and children’s characters to tell the story, kids stay captivated.

General information: Admission is $9.50 for adults and $7.50 for kids and includes access to all floors of the building, including the children’s museum. There is some food nearby. The building is stroller and wheelchair accessible.

Insider Tips: After this learning experience, make sure to spend some time a let some energy go at the Johnstown Children’s Museum. The building also houses an art gallery on the second floor and a museum about the area’s steel manufacturing history.

Carnegie Museum of natural history Dinosaur

Carnergie Museum of natural history biology exhibit credit Wonderswithinreach.com

Carnegie Museum of natural history Insects

Carnegie Museum of natural history outside

Carnegie Museum of natural history water exhibit credit Wonderswithinreach.com

4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

3. Check Out Real Dinosaur Bones at the Carnegie Science Center

The Carnegie Natural History Museum in Pittsburgh has been dedicated for over 50 years to research all about the natural world. Some of their exhibits include real dinosaur bones. But learning experience for all aspects of life is covered from insects to climate and minerals. Parents recommend going for their Super-Science Saturdays to enjoy the hands-on demonstrations included in the ticket.

General Information: Adult admission is $25 and child admission is $15. There is food available onsite. They have a strong commitment to providing a learning experience to children with all abilities with wheelchair-accessible paths and sensory-friendly “camp out” hours. The museum also offers a private nursing area for breastfeeding sessions.

Insider Tips: Your admission fee gets you into the Natural History Museum AND the Carnegie Art Museum. Take advantage of the parking next door which is only $10 for the whole day, to walk around in town after your visit. And if you are on a budget go on the weekdays after 3 PM for a ½ OFF admission with the code: after3.

Gettysburg Battlefield Visitor Center credit drnadig

Gettysburg monument in Pennsylvania credit DelmasLehman

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Cannon on Battlefield credit lillisphotography

1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325

4. Take a family-friendly tour of Gettysburg Military Park

The historical park is doing a great job at making this part of the Civil War’s history more accessible to younger audiences with their “Children of Gettysburg 1863” program run by the Gettysburg Foundation. The visit is done around a family’s story of living there during the war and includes scavenger hunts and other fun interactive activities like feeling the weight of a soldier’s pack.

General information: The tour is about 45 minutes long and costs $10 for adults and $5 for children 5+. The battlefield itself is FREE to visit as well as the visitor center since it is part of the national park network. There are bathrooms scattered throughout the park. There is food onsite but it is not recommended to eat there.

Insider tips: Be careful not to pay for expensive tourist bus tours. You can tour the battlefield with your car for FREE and download a self-guided tour app on your phone. Don’t forget your passport stamp!

Plan your trip with a travel app designed for parents!

Check out the world map here. You can find family-friendly places like museums, playgrounds, restaurants with kids play space, hotels with family rooms, even a local pediatrician just in case!

Best part, places are selected by parents like you!

What to do in Pennsylvania in the winter or on a rainy day?

Pennsylvania is known for its colder weather, so here are things to do indoors.

American Helicopter Museum in Chester PA credit wonderswithinreach.com

American Helicopter Museum in Chester PA inside credit wonderswithinreach.com

American Helicopter Museum in Chester PA credit wonderswithinreach.com

1220 American Blvd, West Chester, PA 19380

5. Pretend to Fly a helicopter in Chester, PA

The American Helicopter Museum is about 1-hour from Philadelphia and is perfect to spend a few hours indoors. It offers a great selection of helicopters, lots of information to learn from, and opportunities to climb inside some of the aircraft. Since it is outside of the city, it is often much less crowded which makes it a great option for sensitive kiddos.

General Information: Adult tickets are $15 and children’s are $14, parking is free onsite. It is a wheelchair-accessible facility. There are snacks for purchase onsite but you are welcome to bring your own and enjoy their picnic room.

Insider Tips: Check out their selection of STEM programs like “Science Saturdays” for kids to learn through play with knowledgeable staff. Families also recommend heading over to the Kid’s playroom with the train and toys display, as well as comfy seats perfect for taking a break from the excitement or entertaining toddlers.

Pittsburgh children's museum STEM play credit wonderswithinreach

Pittsburgh children's museum hands on credit wonderswithinreach

Pittsburgh children's museum foam play credit wonderswithinreach

10 Children’s Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

6. A Place For All Ages at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh offers tons of hands-on educational experiences where kids learn through having fun. What makes this place super special is its partnership with the Museum lab next door. Toddlers and younger kids can play with water, climb through mazes, or create things at the maker’s lab. Teens and pre-teens can create, and learn new artistic skills besides professional artists or freely at the museum lab. This combination of programs they offer makes it a perfect spot for families with children of big age gaps, or anyone with a curious mind!

General Information: Admission is $19 for adults and $17 for kids (children under 2 are free) and includes the museum lab entry. Plan for the entire day on-site, they have a cafe but they allow you to bring your food too and they provide changing tables throughout. Parking is $7.

Insider Tips: Parents recommend bringing bathing suits and towels for their water area.
The museum provides an extensive set of information for accessibility of all kinds, and sensory-friendly days monthly. There are also better food options within walking distance.

Please touch museum grocery exhibit credit pleasetouchmuseum.org

4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131

7. Play “pretend” at the Please Touch Museum

The Please Touch Museum is located in the heart of Philadelphia. This large museum offers tons of permanent exhibits like an oversized supermarket and food court, a garden, a water room, and even a pretend campsite for little ones to play. The museum is best for kids 8 and under and offers some great toddler programs for local families.

Key Information: Admission is $22 for anyone aged 1 year and older. Parking costs $16 and food onsite averages $5 to $7 for kid-friendly food combos. You can find a private nursing room and changing tables on specific floors. Parents reported the site to be both stroller and wheelchair accessible.

Insider Tips: They offer different special discounts throughout the year so make sure to look at their promotion. For parents of sensory-sensitive children, they offer a calm-down corner to escape from stimuli and a detailed sensory map. Parents have also reported that their cafeteria is great for large families with lots of seating and bigger tables.

Lewisburg Children’s Museum medical exhibit credit wonderswithinreach

Lewisburg Children’s Museum grocery exhibit credit wonderswithinreach

Lewisburg Children’s Museum art exhibit credit wonderswithinreach

815 Market St #14, Lewisburg, PA 17837

8. Pit Stop At Lewisburg Children’s Museum

The Lewisburg Children’s Museum is perfectly located between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh near Route 80. If you are planning that road trip through Pennsylvania with younger kids, it is worth visiting this little family-friendly hidden gem. It has some fun, educational play spaces. Children can also participate in music classes, art workshops, language classes, and science activities.

General Information: Admission is $9 for everyone. It is wheelchair accessible but the space is pretty cramped. Note that strollers should stay outside of the entrance. There is a no-eating or drinking on-site policy and a bathroom with a changing table available near the entrance.

Insider Tips: Families usually spend about 2-3 hours with toddlers here. Their body exhibit is allowing kids to remove their shoes, so bring socks!

Crayola Experience Easton PA Credit Wonderswithinreach

Crayola Experience Easton puzzles PA Credit Wonderswithinreach

Crayola Experience Show Credit Wonderswithinreach

30 Centre Sq Cir, Easton, PA 18042

9. Make your own crayons at Crayola

The Crayola Experience in Easton, PA, is a quirky 4 story high indoor fun, with creative experiences for kids and their families. Featuring lots of hands-on activities and entertainment, kids can play with Crayola products, make their own crayons, and interactive play.

General Information: Admission is $27 if you buy online, you get tokens to use in specific exhibits involving materials (like the make your crayons one). On average families spend 5 to 6 hours there. Outside food is not allowed! There are changing tables onsite and all attractions are wheelchair accessible. For parking options check this website.

Insider tips: Families recommend this activity for ages 1- 8 years old and be aware that the place gets very crowded on the weekend. Parents recommend staying away from the cafe and instead using your re-entry privilege to go check out the couple of food options within walking distance which are much more affordable.

Safety Tip For A Road Trip To Pennsylvania With Kids

Some area in the state are mountainous so be prepared to drive accordingly.
If you are taking a road trip through Pennsylvania in winter, check out their official road conditions site and travel safely

What are the best Theme Parks in Pennsylvania?

The keystone state is famous for its array of theme parks and water parks. But only a few made our list, see below.

Bird Eye view of Dorney Park credit dorneypark.com

Gentle rides for younger kids at Dorney Park credit dorneypark.com

Snoopy Characters at Dorney Park credit dorneypark.com

Water attraction at Dorney Park credit dorneypark.com

Water slide at Dorney Park credit dorneypark.com

4000 Dorney Park Rd, Allentown, PA 18104

10. Ride a Rollercoaster at Dorney Park

Dorney Park has rides for kids big and small. For the youngest kids, Planet Snoopy’s gentle rides are fun-sized just for them; older kids can enjoy the high-intensity thrill rides like the Talon and Thunderhawk roller coasters

Key Information: Admission is $40 per person but counts an additional $30 for parking. Between both parks plan for all day with a 15-45min wait for ride lines. They offer many allergy-friendly food options and disability access assistance for many rides.

Insider Tips: Admission gets you into Dorney Park’s Wildwater Kingdom waterpark, too! If you have a child between 3 and 5 years old get their FREE pre-K pass! Bees can be intense at this park so come prepared.

Mascott Idlewild and soakzone pennsylvania credit wonderswithinreach

Train Idlewild and soakzone pennsylvania credit wonderswithinreach

Attraction Idlewild and soakzone pennsylvania credit wonderswithinreach

Hitstoric carousel Idlewild and soakzone pennsylvania credit wonderswithinreach

tree Idlewild and soakzone pennsylvania credit wonderswithinreach

2574 Lincoln Hwy, Ligonier, PA 15658

11. Visit Daniel the Tiger at Idlewild & Soakzone

This amusement park is located about 1 hour east of Pittsburgh and opens mid-May for the season. There are multiple sections to choose from, from fairytale vibes to a full water park and a great roller coaster for older kids. For little ones, we recommend visiting Daniel the Tiger Neighborhood. There are some great climbing structures and playgrounds to take a break from the rest as well.

Key Information: Tickets are $69.99 with many discount opportunities and advantageous season passes (giving you free tickets). Bathrooms can be tricky to find so make sure to find them ahead of time. Wheelchair accessible paths and rides are available and they offer sensory-sensitive amenities onsite.

Good To Know: Families recommend booking the 2-day tickets and staying nearby overnight since one day is not enough to enjoy both the rides and the waterpark. Parents warn that the pool gets super crowded after launch typically, so instead start your day there in the morning and head over to the other sections later.

Read our full list of best theme parks in Pennsylvania

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Fun things to do in Pennsylvania with babies and toddlers

Age appropriate amusement park is always a struggle when you travel with babies and toddlers, luckily Pennsylvania has something for everyone!

Delgrosso Amusement Park Pennsylvania Entry credit Wonderswithinreach

Delgrosso Amusement Park Pennsylvania Ice cream credit Wonderswithinreach

Delgrosso Amusement Park Pennsylvania Pirate Cove credit Wonderswithinreach

Delgrosso Amusement Park Pennsylvania Wave pool credit Wonderswithinreach

4352 E Pleasant Valley Blvd, Tipton, PA 16684

12. Budget-Friendly Fun at Delgrosso’s Amusement Park

We selected this theme park for its good food and budget-friendly options. Delgrosso’s Amusement Park is a small park ideal for younger kids and large families. It is also connected to Laguna Splash water park by a walkway. You can ride by the ticket or get a day pass, which makes this park perfect for budget control. Tons of discounts are also available on their website.

Key Information: Day passes are between $25 and $37 and the parking is free. You will find shaded areas throughout and a wheelchair-accessible pool. The whole park is cashless so come prepared.

Good To Know: The food is highly recommended by local families, especially on Wednesday Spaghetti Day. If you want a cabana you will need to reserve them at the beginning of the day since they fill up quickly.

Sesame Place Pennsylvania Street tree Credit Pimi Adventures

Sesame Place Pennsylvania front door Credit Pimi Adventures

Sesame Place Pennsylvania store Credit Pimi Adventures

Sesame Place Pennsylvania front carroussel Credit Pimi Adventures

100 Sesame Rd, Langhorne, PA 19047

13. Dine with Elmo at Sesame Place

If you have a child who is a fan of Sesame Street or wants to fall back into childhood yourself, this is the place to be! You can enjoy this unique dining experience only 30 minutes from Philadelphia. You get to spend some time with characters and enjoy a family-friendly all-you-can-eat buffet (you can also send dietary restrictions ahead of time). The park is also ideal if you have toddlers since most rides are adapted to a younger crowd. You will find both dry and water attractions there.

General Information: The experience starts at $19.99 for children and $22 for adults (which doesn’t include the park tickets). They offer low sensory spaces in the park as well as full park sensory-friendly dates. LGBTQ+ families, be aware, that bathrooms are not for all genders.

Insider tips: Parents mentioned the “sunny day” guarantee at Sesame Place is only applicable to the parking ticket and not the experiences or the parking. You should reserve your tickets online since the waiting lines can be quite long. Make sure to arrive early since they close the park once they reach full capacity!

Dutch Wonderland entry Credit Wonderswithinreach

Dutch Wonderland Bagel Credit Wonderswithinreach

Dutch Wonderland water play Credit Wonderswithinreach

Dutch Wonderland Carousel Credit Wonderswithinreach

Dutch Wonderland Dinosaur Credit Wonderswithinreach

2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602

14. Princesses and Fairy Vibes at Dutch Wonderland

Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is in our selection because of their commitment to accessibility. The park offers rides mainly for younger kids and a couple of roller coasters. If your toddler is 3 feet or taller they will be able to ride most attractions. Parents love the duke’s lagoon and the water park for hot days, they also have a sensory dino dig for anyone needing a break from the rides. It was voted “Best Family Park of 2021“.

Key Information: The day pass is $49 – They provide a detailed list of their ADA rides. LGBTQ+ families please note that they have their changing tables in the women’s bathrooms only. Food onsite is typical of any theme park and outside food is not allowed. Plan to spend the day but parents report that ride lines are not too long.

Insider Tips: You can extend the fun by staying at their partner hotel with cartoon rooms. Or organize your stay around an RV trip in Pennsylvania by staying at the campsite nearby. Both offer discounted rates for the park entry! Bags sizes are also limited to 15X15X15 so come prepared!

Taking a road trip with a toddler through or to Pennsylvania?

Make sure you go in prepared! Our parents community gather some great tips you may not know about in this list of things you should know to keep your toddler happy during a long drive.

Places To Visit in Pennsylvania for Kids that Love Sweets.

What about a treat? Here are our recommendations for taking care of that sweet tooth!

Frozen Custard Meadow Greenwood PA

Frozen Custard Meadow Greenwood PA Ice cream machine

Frozen Custard Meadow Greenwood PA 50s theme

1420 E Pleasant Valley Blvd, Altoona, PA 16602

15. Get a Frozen Custard at the Meadows of Greenwood

Meadows is a Pennsylvania classic for everyone who loves frozen custard or milkshakes! There are several locations throughout the state. Greenwood’s location gives you 1950s retro vibes with a fun bump car and retro seats scattered throughout. The custard has actually been made the same way since the 50s.

Key Information: Kids’ custard cups start at $3.50. Outdoor seating is available and the place is stroller-friendly. They also advertised themselves as being pet-friendly.

Good To Know: The vanilla custard is gluten-free and many locations offer a dairy-free Italian ice option as well as no sugar-added ones. Make sure to check out their calendar to know about their “flavor of the day”.

Hershey chocolate world Entry credit LewisFamCoast2coast

Hershey chocolate world factory credit LewisFamCoast2coast

Hershey chocolate world mascot credit LewisFamCoast2coast

Hershey chocolate world store credit LewisFamCoast2coast

101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033.

16. Make Your Own Candy Bar at Hershey’s Chocolate World

Yes, a visit to Hersheypark in Lancaster County is a staple of Pennsylvania! But if you don’t want the traditional theme park vibe or are looking to discover a more unique experience, you can spend an afternoon taste-testing chocolate, and learn about the process of making it at Hershey Chocolate World. Parents especially rave about the “Make your own candy bar” exhibit!

General Information: Entry is Free for the Hershey story tour but tickets for attractions start at $33 and vary to accommodate other activities. Food hall and bakery for lunch and bathrooms with changing tables are all available onsite. Parking is FREE.

Insider Tips: We also love that most attractions are wheelchair accessible and the staff accommodates any guests with special needs who can’t make wheelchair transfers. Since all the fun is indoors, this also makes for the perfect backup option for a rainy or snowy day planned at the park

What are some fun things to do outdoors in Pennsylvania for families?

We see you outdoorsy families! This is for all families not looking for hikes but wanting to enjoy the fresh air.

East Broad Top Open cariage credit eastbroadtop.com Malkiewicz

East Broad Top train ride credit eastbroadtop.com Malkiewicz

East Broad Top departure credit eastbroadtop.com Malkiewicz

East Broad Top Christmas credit eastbroadtop.com Malkiewicz

East Broad Top Fall credit eastbroadtop.com Malkiewicz

421 Meadow St, Rockhill, PA 17249

17. Take a Train that Goes Back In Time

Much less famous (and therefore touristic) than its counterpart Strasburg Rail Road, the East Broad Top Railroad, is America’s oldest operating narrow-gauge railroad and the only surviving railroad of its type east of the Rocky Mountains. Families can enjoy a leisurely train ride allowing a relaxing experience, through the heart of central Pennsylvania. The visit takes passengers on a scenic 1-hour round trip through rolling hills, farms, and forests.

General Information: Tours range between $22 and $25 for the 2024 season. Plan for 1 hour on the train and be sure to look at their schedule. It is partially wheelchair accessible. There is no food on site but outside food is allowed.

Insider tips: They have an array of special events like their pumpkin patch or Christmas train ride so take a look at their calendar before planning. Families in particular recommend it for the foliage season. Tickets should be booked a week or more in advance since they fill up quickly.

350 W Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

18. Take a Kid’s Cruise in Pittsburgh, PA

Outdoor adventures can be on the water too in Pennsylvania! This special river cruise allows kids to enjoy meeting and dancing with their favorite princesses, superheroes, and other beloved characters.

General Information: Adult admission is $35 and kids’ admission is $20. Plan for 2 hours of cruise time + embarking time. Although there is food available onsite parents are not super fan of the value (quality price).

Insider Tips: The themed cruises change seasonally, with special holiday cruises available around Christmas. In the summer the cruise can run pretty hot so plan accordingly for little ones.

Longwood garden Pennsylvania pond credit Wonderswithinreach

Longwood garden Pennsylvania water feature credit Wonderswithinreach

Longwood garden Pennsylvania flowers feature credit Wonderswithinreach

1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348

19. Stroll Through Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens is located on the outskirts of Philadelphia and consists of over a thousand acres of botanical gardens, art installations, and over 9,000 species of plants. Families usually spend a whole afternoon enjoying nature displays and recommend the fountain show.

General Information: Admission is $25 for adults and $13 for kids. Admission costs are raised around Christmas, due to the popularity of the light and botanical holiday displays. It is an accessible location and they provide wheelchairs for FREE. They have a beer garden and other food options onsite but do not allow outside food.

Insider Tips: There is also a great tree-house-themed kids’ area to not miss for younger visitors. The bathrooms are not all over so make sure to use the one by the entry. Overall the place is quite large so a lot of walking is involved for small kids definitely bring strollers!

What should I pack for a trip to Pennyslvania?

Pack a diverse wardrobe from colder weather clothes to bathing suits. Pennsylvania has different climate depending on the exact location of your trip and of course the season. City escapes in Philly and Pittsburgh will require good shoes and proper sun or warm coverage since you will be walking outside. For the beach in the west, we recommend following this packing tips and for your winter trip this article is super helpful too.

Top Places in Pennsylvania, made for animal-loving kids.

Learning about all the animals and how they interact with their habitat is always fun! Here is a list of our top choices for animal encounters.

Cherrycrest Farm attractions-baby-chick-hatchery credit cherrycrestfarm.com.jpg

Cherrycrest farm attractions-barnyard-jump credit cherrycrestfarm.com

Cherry Crest Farm attractions-bucking-broncos credit cherrycrestfarm.com

Cherry crest farm attractions-big-ball-corral credit cherrycrestfarm.com

Cherry crest farm attractions-battle-zone credit cherrycrestfarm.com

150 Cherry Hill Rd, Ronks, PA 17572

20. Farm vibe and outdoor attractions at Cherry Crest Farm

Adorable theme park meets farm life, is what you get at Cherry Crest Farm. Younger kids can enjoy activities for their age group like a hatchery, a corn pit, or a jumping balloon. While pre-teens and teens may try the paintball range or their version of the soccer “corny ball cage”.

General information: Tickets range from $27 to $47 based on the type of activities your family wants to participate in and they do offer season passes too. Note that the whole place is cashless.

Insider tips: Wrap up your day with some local wineries and breweries for some adult fun too. And make sure you check out their special shows and escape rooms during your visit!

Philadelphia Zoo Primates credit Jgrm

Penguin at the Philadelphia Zoo credit Katie Goettle

Peacock at the Philadelphia Zoo credit Jessica Sterner

3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104

21. Go On Scavenger Hunt Amongst Animals

A family trip to Pennsylvania is not complete without a stop at the world-renowned Philadelphia Zoo. Their newer NatureBlazer Adventures uses smart compasses, engaging challenges, and trivia games to empower your kids to lead the adventure throughout! And for the little ones the zoo offers an aviary bird feeding experience and a carousel.

Key Information: Admission is $16 and NatureBlazer wristbands are $10 for the interactive scavenger hunt. The Zoo is wheelchair accessible. There is food on site but options are limited and expensive. We recommend planning for a whole day to make sure to see it all.

Good To Know: Parents say the train is a kid’s favorite and great for catching up on nap time. And some recommend booking the big cats experience. Prepare your littles for a lot of walking, a stroller is highly recommended.

Living treasures Animal Park credit ltanimalpark.com

Living treasures Animal Park sloth credit ltanimalpark.com

Living treasures Animal big cats sloth credit ltanimalpark.com

268 Fox Rd, New Castle, PA 16101

22. Feed Animals at the Living Treasures Wild Animal Park

Living Treasures Wild Animal Park is located less than an hour’s drive from Pittsburgh. It offers an innovative way to learn about animals, by feeding, petting, and having close encounters. Their whole premise is to make the visit as interactive as possible while keeping their commitment to the animals well being.

General Information: Admission is $15 for adults and $12 for kids and you need to count a little extra for animal food. They only have a vending machine so come with your food and drinks, and make sure to use the bathroom before your visit.

Insider tips: The tickets allow for 50% off the Keystone safari drive perfect to end the day with tired kiddos or as a backup for rainy days. There is also a little playground for kids to run off before leaving.

The real talk about protecting your trip!

Between flight costs, hotel / vacation rental reservations and theme parks tickets, your trip in Pennsylvania needs to be protected against last minutes cancellation either from you or from a situation out of your control. Many families don’t know these facts about trip protection with credit cards. But we are sharing it all with you!

Noteworthy Places To Visit in Pennsylvania

23. Liberty Bell in Philadelphia

Parents review: “A must-see if in the city for the first time”

526 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

24. Presque Isle State Park

Parents review: “Perfect For A Beach Day”

301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505

25. Mercer Museum

Parents reviewed: “interesting if your kids love or study technologies”

84 S Pine St, Doylestown, PA 18901

26. Franklin Institute

Parents say: “Really cool science museum in Philadelphia”

222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

27. Bucks county’s playhouse

Parents reviewed: “Great if your kids love shows and theater and you are visiting Bucks County”

70 S Main St, New Hope, PA 18938

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25 Fun Things to Do in South Florida with Kids Recommended By Local Parents

Maud — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:40:48 +0000

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25 Fun Things to Do in South Florida with Kids Recommended By Local Parents

Are you planning your next family vacation to South Florida? Our recommendations are sourced from GoWhee members and local parents, so you can trust that they’re tried and tested by families just like yours. Let’s dive into the fun!

Fun Family Activities Outdoors

Things to do when the weather is great to catch some fresh air and discover the local culture.

1. Discover The Maritime Heritage Trail

If your family has a knack for underwater exploration, take them to Biscayne National Park, less than 1-hour south of Miami, off the coast. You can see some of the wrecks independently since the park service indicates where they are at sea and on their map. Or you can join the rangers on the guided tour. There are no age limits, but everyone has to be able to swim comfortably to enjoy the snorkeling experience!

General info: Boat rides are $45 / person which includes the guide and all the snorkeling equipment. Remember to bring appropriate gear such as sunscreen, bug spray, and hats for sun protection. Reservations are necessary and need to be made by phone 305-230-1100.

Insider tips: Florida winter months are the best time since the water tends to be clearer. Also, make sure to bring a waterproof camera to capture all the underwater wonders you’ll see.

574 S Beach Rd, Hobe Sound, FL 33455

2. Participate in conservation at the Blowing Rock Preserve

This unique place right on the outskirts of Miami, near West Palm Beach, will help you disconnect from the city completely. The highlight is the 50+ feet waves crashing against the stone formations on the beach. But kids can also have fun by helping the conservation effort. Just head to the visitor center and they will give you little buckets for them to pick up any trash they see. It is a great place to check out one of the many species that seek refuge there, like sea turtles, or enjoy some of the easy unique trails cared for by the conservancy like their sea grape tunnel.

General info: The entry and parking for the site are FREE with a recommended donation of $2. Hikes are short super easy for little feet and offer some shade.

Insider tips: Our members don’t recommend this beach for swimming but great to spend a couple of hours playing with the send. Make sure you arrive early (they open at 9 AM) since parking fills up fast and come prepared for mosquitoes.

Fort De Soto, Anderson Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL 33715

3. Take Your Family Through Fort De Soto Batteries

The Military Fortress historic site is located south of St Petersburg, FL. It was originally constructed in the late 19th century as a coastal defense system and played a significant role during the Spanish-American War. Kids can learn more about the area’s military history while exploring the tunnels, bunkers, large cannons, and fortified structures.

General info: The site is open year-round, but hours may vary. Admission is FREE and guided tours are available on select days. Bring comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to climb some stairs.

Insider tips: For a unique experience, visit the fort at sunset when the views are especially beautiful. For a little thrill, bring a flashlight and explore the dark tunnels inside the fort.

3841 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

4. Go Kayaking at Night in Key West

One of the most unique family-friendly activities in Florida is to join a night kayak experience in a clear the bottom boat. Key West Paddle offers a kid-friendly version of this activity. The staff takes you through the breathtaking mangrove tunnels of Key West. This company is family-owned and is highly recommended by parents for their attention to the whole family and the eco-system. Encounters include octopuses, nursing sharks, and other species that you will see and even touch.

General info: Kids aged 4+ can share a boat with an adult and the tickets start at $70 for a single boat. Count to stay on the water for about two hours. The night tour starts between 9 PM and 10 PM so plan naps accordingly.

Insider tips: Don’t forget to bring cash to tip your guide. Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and prepare for a wet adventure.

1 Wildlife Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957

5. Take the tram and discover the local wildlife on Sanibel Island

JN Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island offers a unique experience for outdoorsy families. You have the option to drive through, bike, walk, or take the tram to see the diverse wildlife, including birds, alligators, pelicans, and manatees. The Visitor Center has interactive and hands-on exhibits for kids about the refuge’s ecosystems and the work of Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling. The park’s multiple trails, range from easy boardwalks for little ones to longer 4-miles trails through wetlands.

General info: The center offers free parking and entry with a national park pass or $10 for the whole car. The center and interpretative boardwalk are fully wheelchair-accessible, and restrooms are available. The tram tickets are $40 for adults. The center and wildlife drive are closed on Fridays!

Insider tips: Parents recommend planning to go there at low tide for the best experience.
*At the time we are writing this, the accessible board is closed so check their site for updates. The park received some damages from the IAN hurricane.

Plan your trip with a travel app designed for parents!

Check out the world map here. You can find family-friendly places like museums, playgrounds, restaurants with kids play space, hotels with family rooms, even a local pediatrician just in case!

Best part, places are selected by parents like you!

Alternatives To Famous Theme Parks and Top Attractions For Kids In Florida

At GoWhee we usually don’t recommend things like Universal Studios Florida or Walt Disney World, instead, our members prefer local, inexpensive activities that will keep kids happy and your wallet happier!

2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470

6. Go Wild at Lion Country Safari

This wild Florida family adventure, located 1-hr outside of Fort Lauderdale, is a great alternative to the popular Miami zoo. It’s a drive-through experience to see lions, giraffes, rhinos, and more in their natural habitat. The audio tour lasts 90 minutes and talks about the animals and their surroundings. Another option is to take the walking tour and enjoy activities including paddle boats, carousels, and a splash park.

General info: Admission for adults is $39.50. The park is open daily from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Most of the park is accessible to both wheelchairs and strollers. There are two food places onsite.

Insider tip: Take cash with you so you can experience feeding the giraffes from a platform ($5). If you pull a camper or other vehicle this will not be allowed. If you are not comfortable using your vehicle, you can rent a car from the office for $35.00

201 Front St, Key West, FL 33040

7. Take A Ride On The Conch Tour Train

This famous train in Key West, is one of the most relaxing things to do with kids. For 75 minutes, you sit in a charming open-air train and learn all about the island’s most popular attractions and landmarks. The guides take you through the heart of Old Town Key West, Duval Street, and more while sharing tales and tidbits from Key West’s rich history.
Great for maximizing nap time with your little one!

General info: Tickets for the Conch Tour Train start at $42 for adults and $20 for ages 4-12. That includes a FREE admission to the Sails to Rails Museum and a coupon book. The train runs daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm and can be purchased online or at the ticket office on Front Street.

Insider tips: Arrive early to avoid long lines and bring a light sweater as the train can get chilly with strong winds.

4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446

8. Stroll around the Morikami Japenese Gardens

This Japanese botanical garden near Delray Beach in Fort Lauderdale is designed with kids in mind. It offers beautiful gardens stretching on 16 acres of winding paths, with a world-class bonsai collection. The museum building is a beautiful and traditional Japanese villa. Kids of all ages can enjoy specific tours tailored to their age, with hands-on exhibits, ponds with koi, and traditional Sado tea ceremony demonstrations.

General info: Admission is $16 for adults and free under 6 years old. Plan for at least 3 hours or more to truly enjoy it all. The gardens and museums are fully accessible but make sure to bring your wheelchair. They do not allow outside food onsite but there is a cafe available that serves Pan Asian food for lunch.

Insider tips: Try to visit the gardens when they have one of their unique family-friendly events or classes like Kite Flying or Cherry Blossom Crafting, those events are FREE with admission.

1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040

9. Stop By The Key West Butterfly Conservatory instead of Butterfly World

This Butterfly Conservatory gives visitors the experience of walking in a lush tropical garden, with hundreds of free-flying butterflies and an array of exotic birds, turtles, and flamingos, at half of the cost of popular Butterfly World north of Ft Lauderdale. It is also a great place to learn about the different stages of these beautiful insects, with kids.

General info: Tickets are $17.50 for adults (or $15.50 online) and $12.50 for 3+. It takes about 20-45 minutes to visit this location with kids. Parking is free. Strollers are NOT allowed but they have bathrooms with a changing table inside.

Insider tips: If you keep your ticket from the Hemingway House, you get $2 off for your visit. Make sure you stop by the “southernmost point” place right nearby.

GoWhee’s Responsible Family Travel Pledge

Our primary focus is on showcasing small, local, inclusive, and environmentally responsible businesses, allowing you to use your tourism $ positively while having fun with your kids…

GoWhee Members Support Inclusivity Local Communities Small Businesses The Planet

Family-Friendly Attractions Fun For Animal-Loving Kids

Most travel guides will recommend visiting the Everglades, or the manatees, and they are great stops, but at GoWhee, we think that swamps and alligators are not the only Florida family attractions worth a mention.

2396 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

10. Learn about the conservation efforts to protect sea turtles

At the Turtle Hospital in Marathon Key, Florida, your family can witness the rehabilitation of injured turtles in a real working hospital. The visit is an educational visit showing a behind-the-scenes look at the hospital facilities and rehabilitation area. After the visit, guests are invited to feed the turtles.

General info: Admission fees are $35.00 for adults, $17.50 under 12, and free under 4yo.

Insider tips: Our community of parents recommends doing this activity with kids aged 6+, as it can be a little long for young children. Check their website for release party schedules, make sure to reserve in advance, and fill out forms online to save time onsite.

1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432

11. Watch a turtle release at the Gumbo Limb Nature Center

Located near Boca Raton it is often considered one of the best things to do with kids in South Florida because of its sea turtle release program from May to July. Families can enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk, and catch a glimpse of the tropical fishes in the aquariums, as well as the many species in a butterfly garden and container garden. Kids can also discover some pretty cool science-based/eco initiatives exhibits too like their safe lighting exhibit and a rain barrel system.

General info: The center is FREE, although donations are accepted. The sea turtle release experience is $20 per person for non-residents. Make sure to reserve since it is often booked up. The release happens on a specific schedule in season, (Tuesday to Thursday, between 8:45 pm and 12:00 am) and only children aged 8+ can participate.

Insider tips: Parents recommend grabbing the scavenger hunt kit or using the self-guided tours (i.e: meditative, tree scanning) to make the visit more interactive for kids. Also, check their kids’ program schedule before your visit.

What is the best tour company in South Florida?

When you book nature or water excursions (i.e dolphin and manatee boat tours, snorkeling experiences), always look for the Blue Star Provider certification. It makes sure your provider respects conservation rules.

3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330

12. Take a look at the beautiful Flamingo Gardens

Located only 40 minutes from Miami, the Flamingo Gardens is the oldest botanical garden in South Florida. It offers a unique experience when visiting Miami with kids and a natural habitat for Caribbean flamingos. You can feed the flamingos and explore the 25,000-square-foot free-flight Aviary, a black bear habitat, and see bobcats, peacocks, and other fascinating species. They also have some temporary exhibits so check their calendar.

General info: Admission for adults is $24, and $17 for 3 to 11-year-olds. The garden offers free parking and onsite food options. Visitors with kids are recommended to plan for 6-7 hours onsite, to explore and enjoy the various attractions. Wheelchairs and strollers can be rented.

Insider tips: Don’t forget to grab the food packets at the entrance for $1 to feed the flamingos. Parents recommend taking the 30-minute tram at the beginning since it gives you a nice overview of the whole place.

77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

13. Feed Nurse Sharks and Tarpons on Islamorada Island.

One of the best things to do in South Florida with kids loving animal interaction, is to get up close and personal with some tarpons. Check out Robbie’s on Islamorada which usually attracts 100s of them every day. If your family is looking for something a bit more out of the way, you can experience the same feeding of the Tarpons and nurse sharks with kids at key largo fisheries as well.

General info: Going on the docks costs $2 and feedings are $4 for the fish. There are plenty of food and small shops around to enjoy the visit, so it is a great spot to stop for lunch.

Insider tips: Note that the Pelicans might be a bit aggressive around the feeding, but even if you stop by to watch the show is worth it. Our members recommend getting the punch card and trying the Mahi at Robbie’s. Also, it is an iconic spot, so it can get pretty crowded in high season.

11710 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050

14. Hand-feed sharks at Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

The aquarium is located about 2.5 hrs south of Miami on Marathon Key, and provides an immersive experience like no other. Parents can snorkel with kids aged 5+ in the main tank and you can come up close to the sea creatures like baby stingrays, hand-feed the sharks, and even embark on a treasure hunt to dig for shark teeth. The staff even gives informative shows to make the whole experience a bit more educational.

General info: The cost of entry is $27.50 for adults plus additional options. For encounters like the shark experience count an extra $25. The onsite cafe offers a variety of food options along with wine and beer.

Insider tips: Parents in GoWhee, love their free reentry policy with the wristband, and recommend buying food punch cards that allow you to feed several animals. Also, Don’t forget to ask for a military discount if it applies to you.

Does my credit card insurance covers water sports in Florida?

Are you using a credit card to book your vacation in Florida? It may have limitations of coverage for water sports activities make sure to check out this article: The Real Talk about family travel insurance.

Things to do in South Florida with kids on a rainy day

With up to 250 days of sunshine in Florida, you may plan mostly outdoor activities. But hot days can be tiring for little ones and if you visit during hurricane season, these options will be life-saver.

401 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

15. A S.T.E.A.M. activity in Florida For Kids Of All Abilities.

The Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) in Florida offers tons of interactive exhibits for kids (best for up to 10 years old). Here, you can encounter alligators, turtles, pythons, fish, and otters as well. The two-story complex houses an IMAX theater and various fun simulations including a Mars adventure and roller coaster. Make sure to check the museum’s water experiments, outdoor activities, and special STEAM exhibits for little ones.

General info: A visit to MODS typically takes 3-4 hours. Tickets are priced at $27 for adults and $22 for children. The museum also offers Sensory Free Sundays where admission is free for neuro-divergent children. Manual wheelchairs are available at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis.

Insider Tips: Parents at GoWhee, recommend reserving the Discovery Spot exhibit in advance to avoid disappointment. For parking, choose street parking which costs about $3 per hour, instead of the more expensive city lot. Also, if you’re a Bank of America member, you can enjoy free admission so make sure to take advantage of that.

1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432

16. Take An Art Break At The Aventura Mall

Not your traditional art museum, this mall offers a kid-friendly self-guided art walk and is only 30 minutes from the heart of Miami. Check out their collection of incredible installations made by local artists. It features some unique things like a water playground for little kids to cool off or a 93-foot-tall slide great for teens and older kids. You can download their guided audio tour to learn more about each piece, and why not, do a little shopping?

General info: Entry is FREE since it is in the mall. The mall operates from 10 am to 9:30 pm from Monday to Saturday, and from 12 pm to 8 pm on Sunday, but some installations like the slide only operate on the weekend. The slide has size restrictions for little ones. Tons of food options onsite and Parking is free.

Insider Tips: Bring a change of clothes for your kids as they’re likely to get wet in the water playground and the play area for the little ones requires socks so come prepared.

17 S Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd #300, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

17. A Kid-Friendly Escape room at Escapology, Ft Lauderdale

For a more thriling experience suitable for school-aged kids and teens in South Florida, take a look at this escape room center with a unique “kids mode”. It’s designed specifically to engage children in captivating narratives, and puzzle solving, and encourage critical thinking in a fun way. They can embark on a variety of 60-minute-long adventures, like a Scooby-Doo-themed room. Plus, all escape rooms are private, so your family won’t have to share the experience with strangers.

General info: Tickets to Escapology are priced at $44 per person for 7-14-year-olds. While a minimum of four children is required for the kids mode, adults can either assist in the game for free or choose to relax outside in the lounge.

Insider tips: If you don’t have four children to enjoy the kids’ mode, Escapology also allows children to participate in their traditional escape rooms.

1495 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

18. Pretend play for younger kiddos at Kids Hideout

The cute indoor play place in Fort Lauderdale, is best for kids aged 0-8. It includes an animal hospital, a fire station, a restaurant, and a special area for babies 18 months and under. This play area is perfect for handling Florida’s hot days and even caters to parents, with a comfortable lounge.

General info: The entry is $15.00 between 1 and 8 years old, which covers up to 4 hours of playtime and includes two accompanying adults. Children 8+ can enter for free if they are accompanied by a paying sibling. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.

Insider tips: Remember to bring your socks! Also, our community highly recommends checking out the unique classes offered at Kids Hideout, such as music classes and “Zumbini” classes.

Tip for transportation in South Florida

For a fun way to discover Key West Make sure you grab one of the Golf carts since you can drive them legally in the street and they are much easier to park (note: golf cars are responsible for paying for parking too)insurance.

The Miami Trolley is free and accessible to all!

Bucket-List Worthy Florida Activities

South Florida is not just about Miami, Ft Lauderdale, and a few famous Keys. There are so many more things to do with kids out-of-the-beaten paths. Our community recommends taking a look at these beautiful spots if you have a little extra time in the area.

19. Marco Island

Located 2 hours west of Miami, Marco Island is known for its calm waters and soft sandy shores. The pristine beaches on the island like the Tigertail Beach, are perfect for building sandcastles, shell collecting, bird watching, and splashing around. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and ice cream shops nearby for a quick snack break.

20. Pigeon Key

Pigeon Key, located off the coast of Marathon, FL, is only accessible via a car-free 7-mile-long bridge by train, bike, or walk. It offers some exciting things to do for kids like snorkeling, fishing, a narrated train ride, and a museum. Parents recommend a full-day trip and packing food since there are no concessions on the island. You can bring your bike or rent it BEFORE entering the bridge in Marathon. Note that there are no hotels on the island and pets are not allowed.

21. Dry Tortugas National Park Island

Only accessible by ferry service from Key West, these remote islands are home to a beautiful coral reef, white sandy beaches, and a Civil War-era fort. The shallow waters directly accessible from the sandy beach are perfect for little ones to snorkel and explore marine life, including the chance to see turtles and dolphins.Entrance fees to the Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson are typically included in the ferry cost. For families whose children enjoy the great outdoors, consider checking out the camping options available it is a once-of-a-lifetime type adventure.

22. Anna Maria Island

Parents will appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, perfect for spending quality time with the kids, while building sandcastles, swimming in the clear, shallow waters, or spotting dolphins on a boat tour. Without high-rise buildings, the island’s charm is all about the small-town feel, with little shops, family-friendly restaurants, bike paths, and local parks.

When is the best time to visit Florida ?

Before traveling to Florida, take a look at the cruise ship calendar and try to stay away from cruise days to prevent hoards of people.

Florida Winter months’ temperature ranges from 50s to 70s and crowds usually visit in the spring. So we recommend January to beginning of march.

Kid-Friendly Beaches that are not the South Beach in Miami

Despite popular beliefs, South Florida and in particular the Keys’ beaches are not all great for kids. But we found a few stop-worthy spots thanks to our community of parents.

3001 N. State Road A-1-A, Boca Raton, FL 33431

23. Family-Friendly Beach in Boca Raton

The Spanish River Park in Boca Raton, has a great stretch of clean white sand with lounge chaise, umbrella rentals, and a beautiful playground (also offering some shade). The beach typically has lifeguards until 5 pm or so. Note that the playground is highly recommended, great for all ages with tons of things to do like zip lines and other cool structures.

General info: Parking is between $25 and $50 but this includes the beach amenities with clean shower facilities and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms. You can also decide to park in the meter parking area if you don’t plan on using the park’s amenities.

Insider Tips: Plan to stay the day there since the parking pass is the same whether you stay 1 hour or the full day. Our community of parents loves that you can use a safe tunnel from the parking lot to the beach without crossing the busy road.

Sarasota, FL 34242

24. Family-Friendly Beach in Sarasota County

The Siesta Beach offers families a safe and picturesque beach experience. This beach is highly recommended because the lifeguards on duty provide an extra sense of security, and kids will love the playground adjacent.

General info: The parking is FREE, and there are some food stalls on site. There are clean bathrooms and showers and you can use the pavilion area to picnic in the shade.

Insider tips: Parents in our community recommend arriving before 11-12 PM since parking tends to fill up after and to follow the local lifeguard updates (using #Scotteronthebeach on Facebook).

Florida 33043

25. Family-Friendly Beach in The Keys

Bahia Honda State Park beach offers a more secluded and peaceful experience for a vacation with family. Bahia Honda has the Keys’ largest stretch of natural sandy beach. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and you can even spot some dolphins if you’re lucky!

General info: Admission to the park is $8 per vehicle. There are picnic areas, restrooms, and showers available.

Insider tips: Arrive early to secure a parking spot, and bring some cash for the entrance fee. Also, don’t forget your snorkeling gear! The best time to see dolphins is in the morning or late afternoon.

Noteworthy Playgrounds in South Florida

Miami South Point Park Playground
1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Sugar Sand Park in Boca
300 S Military Trail, Boca Raton, FL 33486

Truman Waterfront Park Key West
Southard St, Key West, FL 33040

Tiny town sunrise Florida
11100 NW 44th St, Sunrise, FL 33351

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22 Best Dinosaur Parks Worldwide, You Should Add To Your Bucketlist

The Gowhee Team — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 16:16:33 +0000

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22 Best Dinosaur Parks Worldwide, You Should Add To Your Bucketlist

There are so many Dinosaur parks for kids in the world. From theme parks like the famous dinosaur world chain with Jurassic park-themed roller coasters to prehistoric zoos with realistic life-like dinosaur sculptures… if your kids love dinosaur you must already be familiar with some of them. But GoWhee’s promise is to help you discover the world as a family, with authenticity. So with the recommendations from our community of traveling parents, we created this list of dinosaur parks, with real tracks, fossils and educative materials, from all around the world. And If you are planning the ultimate vacation and are trying to find a really cool theme parks for Dino-loving kids, check our list of under-the-radar theme parks at the end of this article.

Plan your trip with a travel app designed for parents!

Check out the world map here. You can find family-friendly places like museums, playgrounds, restaurants with kids play space, hotels with family rooms, even a local pediatrician just in case!

Best part, places are selected by parents like you!

Here are the best Dinosaur parks, roadside attractions, and where you can find reel fossils and foot prints displays in the world, selected by traveling parents like you!

A Jurassic Road Trip through the US and Canada Parks

Great for families visiting North-America and wanting to see real tracks and fossils in an educative and natural park setting.

Dinosaur Provincial Park Canada Credit lovelifeabroad.com

Dinosaur Provincial Park Canada credit ronniechua

Dinosaur Provincial Park Canada credit photos.com

Dinosaur Provincial Park Canada credit Hemera Technologies

Unnamed Road,, Iddesleigh, AB T0J 1T0, Canada

1. Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta, Canada

The Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta is one of the most recognized dinosaur themed natural park in North America. It offers multiple trails with “out of this world” landscapes, a nice 3 km scenic route that you can either walk or drive. You can choose to go on your own fossil and prints hunt, or take one of their tours adapted for kids with a guide. This park also has a visitor center with indoor exhibits and hands on activities if weather is not great.

Info: Adult $4, free for 3 and under. They offer tours for all ages so even little ones can experience digging. The museum/visitor center in the state park and some of the trails are wheelchair and stroller accessible. Food can be found nearby in a small concession.

Good to Know: Our members recommend to plan for a couple of days to visit the area and include their affiliated museum, the Tyrrell museum as well as the town of Drumheller located about 2hrs drive north, nicknamed the Dinosaur capital of the world.

trail in park Connecticut Dinosaur state park credit CT.gov

replica Connecticut Dinosaur state park credit CT.gov

prints Connecticut Dinosaur state park credit CT.gov

kids activities Connecticut Dinosaur state park credit CT.gov

Turtle exhibit Connecticut Dinosaur state park credit CT.gov

close up prints Connecticut Dinosaur state park credit CT.gov

Museum from outside Connecticut Dinosaur state park credit CT.gov

Entry of the boardwalk Connecticut Dinosaur state park credit CT.gov

400 West St, Rocky Hill, CT 06067

2. Dinosaur State Park, Rocky Hill, Connecticut, United States

The park offers over two miles of kid-friendly trails allowing kids to discover up-close over 750 foot prints. At the Exhibit Center, you can see one of North America’s largest real dinosaur tracks, dioramas, other fossil collections, and interactive exhibits, like their cast mining activities which lets you cast the footprints to take home (make sure to come with their specific list of ingredients). There is also a fun dig for younger kids.

Info for families: Adults (13+) are $6 and Children (5 and under) are Free. The trails are open daily, year-round, weather permitting but some activities like the dig is seasonal. There is nowhere to buy food at the park so come prepared.

Insider Tips: Our community recommends you to enjoy their geocache game onsite since it is a great way to make learning all the historical facts playful. Just download the geocaching app before your visit.

Make Your Dino-Themed Trip Even More Fun

Go all out and get special themed snacks,a fossil dig kit like this one, and dress to impress with your favorite dinosaur-themed outfit.

Dinosaur Valley State Park, Replicas Texas credit texas.gov

Dinosaur Valley State Park river activitiesTexas credit texas.gov

Dinosaur Valley State Park, fooprints Texas credit texas.gov

Dinosaur Valley State Park river bed, Texas credit texas.gov

Glen Rose, TX 76043

4. Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas, United States

Discover dinosaur tracks in the bed of the Paluxy River while riding a horse. This is a unique experience where the Eagle Eye Ranch partners with the state park to guide you through the trails while horse back riding. Families can also camp, swim, fish, and paddle in the river on their own through the 20 miles of trails, as well as explore the Dino footprints.

Info for families: Adults are $8 for the day and children 12 and under are FREE. If you choose to ride on a horse on the trails, they offer services for kids age 3+, prices start at $30.

Inside tips: Contact the park for trails status and dinosaur track visibility before your trip since the dinosaur tracks in the riverbed are not always visible. If you go on your own, make sure to download their pre-loaded map before the visit so you can easily find the prints with your map app.

Red Scar Knoll John day fossil bed credit NPS.gov

Painted Hills in the snow john day fossil beds credit NPS.gov

Painted Cove boardwalk John day fossil beds credit NPS.gov

Kids Blue Basin boardwalk john day fossil beds credit nps.gov

John day fossil beds museum exhibit oregon credit cascoly

32651 OR-19, Kimberly, OR 97848

5. Oregon’s John Day Fossil Beds, in Oregon, USA

The Oregon’s John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers 14,000 acres of outdoor adventures through beautiful landscapes and an indoor experience with the Thomas Condon Visitor. This center, unparalleled in its collection, showcases over 500 captivating fossil specimens of dinosaurs and other kinds and one-of-a-kind murals that narrate the 50 million years of natural history. Kids can observe scientists in action through special viewing windows, take part in the ranger program, and hike the trail of fossils in the Clarno Unit.

Info for families: Then entry to both the center and park is FREE. The visitor center is accessible with wheelchairs to borrow onsite. It offers hands-on exhibits for little ones.

Insider tips: In the park, the journey between the monument’s three distinct units is a pretty long 1-2hrs drive, so to cover the whole park it is recommended to stay overnight. There is not much to stop in between and cell reception is spotty so plan accordingly.

Dinosaur Ridge colorado foot prints credit danibeder

Dinosaur Ridge colorado close up prints credit danibeder

Dinosaur Ridge colorado road credit danibeder

Dinosaur Ridge colorado scenery credit danibeder

16831 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465

6. Dinosaur Ridge, Colorado, USA

Dinosaur Ridge is often celebrated as America’s #1 dinosaur track site because not only it showcases over 300 dinosaur tracks, but it is the discovery site for the world’s first Stegosaurus fossil and also a place where kids can see a whole set of triceratops tracks up close on a 1.5-mile dedicated trail.

Info for families: Their Morrison Dino Pass starts at $20 for kids and includes admissions to the ridge with bus tours and self-guided tour options available, as well as the Morrison Natural History Museum.

Insider tips: The trails around the park are not shaded and water is not available so make sure you come prepared. Our community recommends to stop by the discovery center and enjoy their dig area as well as their 24-foot-long track-way made by a duck-billed dinosaur.

Prints blue beach credit bluebeachfossilmuseum.com

Fossil in museum blue beach credit bluebeachfossilmuseum.com

Fossils credit bluebeachfossilmuseum.com

127 Blue Beach Rd, Hantsport, NS B0P 1P0, Canada

7. Blue Beach, Nova Scotia, Canada

Blue Beach site is a world-renowned fossil site amongst experts, because it marks the birthplace of vertebrate paleontology in Canada. Kids can find fossils and traces of life before dinosaurs, tracing back 350 million years ago. You can enjoy a self guided visit of the beach or head over to the Blue Beach Museum to enjoy their tours with expert fossil interpreters. It is the opportunity to touche and get up close to real fossils since the museum is completely ran by a private collector.

Information for families: Tours and beach access are FREE, although a donation is recommended. Outhouse available onsite but no other facilities. Wheelchairs and strollers will have difficult access on the beach.

Insider tips: Bring mud shoes since the beach is all rock and shells it will get uncomfortable barefoot. It can also be pretty sunny without protection and no facilities nearby so come prepared.

GoWhee’s Responsible Family Travel Pledge

Our primary focus is on showcasing small, local, inclusive, and environmentally responsible businesses, allowing you to use your tourism $ positively while having fun with your kids…

GoWhee Members Support Inclusivity Local Communities Small Businesses The Planet

Other Dinosaur Parks in Europe and UK With Fossils and Prints

Ideal for families visiting the European continent in search for historical digs and naturally preserved fossils and dinosaurs prints.

Dinoplagne foot prints indoors Credit Marie Jacques dignoplagne.com

Dinoplagne digging activity close up credit Maëva Petitfrere dinoplagne.com

Dinoplagne entry of outdoor exhibit Credit Office de Tourisme Terre Valserhône dinoplagne.com

Dinoplagne prints trail credit Marie Jacques dinoplagne.com

Dinoplagne Digging area Credit Marie Jacques dinoplagne.com

Dinoplagne organised activities with staff Credit Maëva Petitfrere dinoplagne.com

Dinoplagne playground credit Marie Jacques dinoplagne.com

49, lieu dit sur la Croix, 01130 Plagne, France

8. Dinoplagne, Plagne, France

Dinoplagne offers a 2-hour journey back in time at this unique site, hosting the world’s longest dinosaur track. The protected site, dating back 150 million years, delves into various themes like biodiversity, the Jurassic era, and continental evolution… Witness footprints outside the canopy or take on a treasure hunt to discover a mystery dinosaur. Finish the visit by enjoying the beautiful open-air play area for younger kids, and for teens, the center offers a cool virtual reality experience (for 9+ years old) about the area of Plagne at the time.

Info for families: Tickets start at 14 euros for adults, free for 0-4 years old. Wheelchair accessibility is not available on the entire site, strollers are allowed and can maneuver the paths but incline can be steep in some parts. The site doesn’t offer bathrooms on the trails but has some in the center. The center also offers food only during the summer season, so come prepared off-season.

Insider tips: Our community recommends booking ahead on their site to get the reserved ticket discount and making sure to check their calendar since different seasons mean different types of visits. In the fall, for instance, self-guided visits are not offered so you will have to book the guided one.

Isle of Skye trotternish credit krzych

Isle of skye scenery credit Naz_B

Fossils isle of skye museum in staffin credit

Close up of print isle of skye museum in staffin credit staffindinosaurmuseum.com

Skye G74 2BX, United Kingdom

9. Isle of Skye, Scottland, U.K

The Isle of Skye has many spots where you can discover dinosaurs’ footprints in their natural habitat. One of the most recent discoveries happened in Brothers’ Point few miles south of Staffin, in 2020. It does involve taking on the 1.5 miles or 2.5 km walking journey to find the prints but if you need something more accessible, head over the An Corran Beach near Staffin, where the prints are close to the ramp.
Another great area to check out is the Score Bay near the Duntulm Castle.

Info for families: FREE access, small parking available, and need to visit at low tide. No food or bathroom on site so come prepared. The museum is open from April to October only.

Insider tips: For An Corran Beach, contact the Staffin Museum for information about weather conditions that may prevent you from seeing the prints. The museum is held by a passionate owner collecting fossils for decades in the region. Prints are typically only visible at low tide so plan accordingly, this will most likely turn into an hour-long scavenger hunt since they are not always obvious to spot.

La rioja spain scenery credit Sima_ha

La rioja spain village credit Sima_ha

26586 Enciso, La Rioja, Spain

10. Path of the Dinosaurs of Enciso, La Rioja, Spain

Enciso, a northern Spanish village surrounded by more than 130 sites (and 11,000 dinosaur footprints from 120 million years ago). It is the perfect start to a kid-friendly trail called the path of the dinosaurs. During the walk, you will find some replicas and playground areas to keep kids engaged. It is a great way to discover evidence of dinosaur swimming patterns, and even signs of a prehistoric battle. Once the visit is done you can head over the visitor center which offers information about trail in both English and Spanish.

Info for families: The deposits access are completely FREE. There are no water, no shade and no bathrooms onsite so come prepared. The overall distance in the trail is over 6Km and takes 2-3 hours in average with kids. The path is graveled and maybe difficult for wheelchair users.

Insider tips: Our members recommends to start early to beat the heat and end with the center (which takes about 30 min to visit). You can also choose to drive-hop in each deposits using google map but the GPS may act up on the way back so map out ahead

Illustration of robotic replicas of sauropods

Estr. de Fátima, 2490-216 Ourém, Portugal

11.Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park, North Portugal

Just an hour and a half drive from Lisbon, you’ll find one of the world’s longest sets of dinosaur tracks, preserved in limestone. The site, which was once a quarry, now features a 147-meter-long track and an educational trail with large sauropod statues, which helps visualizing the size of the ancient creatures. Kids can also see life size replicas onsite.

Info for families: Tickets are 4 euros for adults. It takes about 1-2 hr for the 2.5 km walking loop. The visitor center offers English subtitles for the film. It is not accessible for wheelchair users and strollers and you need to bring food and water with you.

Insider tips: Avoid it on hot days since they are no shade. It is recommended to watch the movie in the center before the site visit.

Dinosaur vacation rain or shine

Rainy Day? No Problem, head over to this list of the best natural history museums some with indoor fossil digs and life-size dinosaurs to make a backup plan.

Notable Dinosaur Parks in Australia and Asia

Great for families visiting the pacific region looking for educative and natural elements from prehistoric and Jurassic era.

Aerial view of Dinosaur Stampede credit Australian Age of Dinosaurs

Small Track credit Dinosaur Stampede

Dinosaur Stampede Tour Guide_Caretaker, Steve Lippis Credit Australian Age of Dinosaurs

Time bridge at Dinosaur Stampede credit Australian Age of Dinosaurs

Opalton QLD 4735, Australia

12. Dinosaur Stampede National Monument, Winton, Australia

This list of the best dinosaur parks couldn’t be complete with the only known dinosaur stampede on the planet. Kids can see the impressive collection of Over 3,300 dinosaur footprints scattered over the rock face and learn the history of the disappearance and recovery of said footprints.

Info for families: Tickets to visit the national monument starts at $30 per adult and there are discounted family pass available. Park is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible. There are inclusive of all families including the LGBTQ+ community with gender-neutral bathrooms.

Insider Tips: The monument has a guided tour only (45 min) but the Lark Quarry Conservation Park is open from 8.30 am to 5 pm and is self-guided.

Overview of Kalasin forest, in thailand credit ภาพของKitti kahotong

Phu Faek forest prints near water, Kalasin, Thailand credit stockdevil

Kalasin Forest close up print, Thailand credit Tanes Ngamsom

MWRP+5WW, Phu Laen Chang, Na Khu District, Kalasin 46240, Thailand

13. Phu Faek Forest Park, Kalasin province, Thailand

This whole Thai province has a dinosaur theme but the main highlight is the set of oversized dinosaur footsteps, believed to belong to a carnivorous dinosaur approximately 2 meters tall and 5 meters long. You can find them in heart of the Phu Faek Forest. The stoned path is an easy 300 meter walk, great for little legs and first time hikers. After the walk you can extend your visit about 1hr drive west to the Sirindhorn Dinosaur Museum which hosts an excavation site and a full jurassic museum.

Info for families: The park entrance is FREE. Bathrooms and often food stalls are onsite but not guaranteed since it is not an official visitor center. Make sure to look at the seasonal calendar since the area is prone to flash floods, local parents don’t recommend visiting in raining season.

Inside tips: All the signs in the park are in Thai and there are no cell reception in the forest, so download a translator app like google lens prior the visit.

Ideas for older kids and teens

For older kids and teens, make it more engaging by watching the classic Jurassic Park movie before going, and make sure to visit one of the theme parks recommended below since they have some thrill rides for teens.

Fun Dinosaur Themed Parks With Rides Or Replicas

Perfect for families wanting to have fun on the dinosaur themed rides, see replicas and entertain little ones with small locally ran parks.

Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

Water structure Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

Tunel of time Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

Rides and beach Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

Prints exhibits Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

Playground Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

Play structures Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

Fossils Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

Educative museum Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

Beach Jurapark, Poland credit juraparkkrasiejow.pl

ul, 1 Maja 10, 46-040 Krasiejów, Poland

14. Jurapark, Krasiejow, Poland,

This park is an educational and entertaining destination all at once. It features over 200 life-sized models of dinosaurs, reptiles, and extinct animals, and is designed based on the latest paleontological knowledge and discoveries to keep things as realistic as possible. Visitors can explore the Prehistoric Oceanarium, which showcases marine reptiles in their natural size, as well as the Science and Evolution Park to learn about the evolution of men. There are attractions suitable for all ages including roller coasters, time travel tunnels, and 5D cinemas.

Info for families: Park tickets start at PLN 99, and various discounts are available. Onsite campsites and accommodations are also onsite.

Insider Tip: Parents recommend going in the summer since you can enjoy the beach area with your ticket, which features additional rides, food options, and lifeguard services. Also good to know, the park has a special offer for kids’ birthdays (ages 3-16) with tickets for 1 PLN.

ogden utah park credit dinosaurpark.org

Ogden Utah park credit Jason Finn

ogden utah dig credit dinosaurpark.org

ogden utah live animals credit dinosaurpark.org

ogden utah indoor exhibits credit dinosaurpark.org

1544 Park Blvd, Ogden, UT 84401

15. Ogden’s George S Eccles Dinosaur Park, Utah, United States

With more than one hundred dinosaur sculptures, this place will make any dinosaur statue parks fan happy. Each sculpture is very realistic, full-sized, and is based on actual dinosaur skeletons. These artfully made creatures come alive with robotics and a state-of-the-art sound system.

Info for families: Adults $7, Children (2-12) $5

Insider Tip: The ticket gives you access to two other museums onsite. They are The Stewart Museum of Paleontology and The Ogden Museum of natural history.

Walkway Scenic world Dinosaur valley australia credit scenicworld.com

Dinosaur Scenic world australia credit scenicworld.com

dinosaur park replica Scenic world australia credit scenicworld.com

Violet St &, Cliff Dr, Katoomba NSW 2780, Australia

16. Scenic World in Katoomba, Australia

This sustainable park offers an immersive experience in a lush rainforest setting, with a jungle-like walkway and a dinosaur valley with tons of dinosaur replicas and real plants from the Jurassic era. Families can explore the park’s UNESCO-protected surroundings, ride on Australia’s first cable car between giant cliffs via the scenic skyway and try out the steepest passenger train in the world.

Info for families: The pass is priced at $59 for adults and around $34 for kids it includes unlimited rides and all their activities so plan at least half a day there. They have a detailed accessibility information sheet on their site. Baby change facilities are available in both the male and female bathrooms, but there are no toilets in the Dinosaur Valley part of the park so come prepared.

Insider tip: Arrive before 10 am to avoid crowds and purchase tickets online in advance to prevent having to come back in the afternoon.

Paleontology museum at dinopolis park Credit Dinopolis.com

Jurassic playground credit dinopolis.com

Time tunel attraction at dinopolis park credit dinopolis.com

Partida Segarra s/n, 03510 Callosa d’en Sarrià, Alicante, Spain

17. Dinopolis, Truel, Spain

Dinopolis is a series of educative parks and museums across Spain, all centered around the dinosaur theme. The location in Truel features the largest museum, with real footprints, and themed rides for kids of all ages. Visitors can enjoy thematic tours, a museum, simulators, a 3D cinema, and shows.

Info: The average visitation time is approximately 6.5 hours, with prices ranging from 20 to 33 euros. The food is underwhelming, and there is no water available on site; outside food is not permitted, so plan to include their meal in the budget. The park is mostly wheelchair accessible.

Insider Tip: It’s best to go early as waiting times can be long in the afternoon. Parents advise against upgrading to other locations since they are pretty far from each other. The one in Truel is the only one with rides. And just a heads up, some rides might be a little scary for younger kids.

Attraction Roarr dinosaur park UK credit roarr.co.uk

Dig Roarr dinosaur park UK credit roarr.co.uk

driving attraction Roarr dinosaur park UK credit roarr.co.uk

Lenwade, Norwich NR9 5JE, United Kingdom

18. Roarr, Norwich, United Kingdom

With 85 acres of fun, Roarr is the largest dinos-themed park in the UK. It offers tons of rides, outdoor and indoor play areas, a splash park, a theater, places to eat, and even a secret animal garden. It is also open all year long with events and special holiday exhibits.

Info: Tickets start at 19 pounds/adults, and they offer annual passes and discounts for second visits – Roarr has a whole program for all abilities, including a special bracelet for assistance at rides, a quiet room to help overstimulated kids, and a play space for sensory seekers.

Insider Tip: The park has an environment-conscious pledge, including solar energy-run buildings, no single-use plastic policy, and even a pollinator-friendly landscape

jurassic golf gouda dinoexperience park credit dinoexperiecepark.nl

dinopark in gouda jurassic mining credit dinoexperiencepark.nl

Sluisdijk 15, 2809 NA Gouda, Netherlands

19. Dino Experience Park, Gouda, Netherlands

Kids can walk around and explore this huge park while learning through play about dinosaurs. There is even a Dino adventure mini-golf course and a playground to let their energy out.

Info: Wheelchair accessible – stroller-friendly – restaurant onsite – outdoor seating.

Insider Tip: This park is best for younger kids. They will love the huge playground area

Dino park Germany credi dinopark.de

Alte Zollstraße 5 D-31547 Rehburg-Loccum

20. The Münchehagen, Rechburg, Germany

The Münchehagen open air museum prides to showcase over 300 life-like, accurately sized dinosaur replicas. Kids can see what famous dinosaurs like Stegosaurus, Triceratops, Brachiosaurus, and of course, the Tyrannosaurus rex looked like. The park is beautifully laid out with a long circular path split into different eras.

Info: Adult tickets are 15 Euros – Dogs are permitted on leash – There is a restaurant onsite – The park is only open during the spring/summer/fall season.

Insider Tip: Thanks to their partnership with the local university and research center, the park offers also the National Geotope ” Dinosaur Tracks” with over 300 real fossilized dinosaur tracks.

family friendly walk prehistodino la cave france credit prehistodino.com

Dino exihbit prehistodino la cave france credit prehistodino.com

Prehistoric men prehistodino la cave france credit prehistodino.com

Cave prehistodino la cave france credit prehistodino.com

Huts prehistodino la cave france credit prehistodino.com

Cave prehistodino la cave france credit prehistodino.com

Tyrex prehistodino la cave france credit prehistodino.com

Sole des Boulangers, D247, 46200 Lacave, France

21. Prehisto Dino, LACAVE, France

Prehisto Dino Parc is built around the evolution of species, from the dawn of the Earth to the Neolithic era. Walk through a natural prehistoric forest and follow a trail punctuated by 150 life-size representations with sounds and movement.

Info: It takes about 1hr to 2hr (with cave) to visit the dinosaur theme park – Tickets start at $8/ adult and are free under 5 years old. – Dogs are allowed on site with a leash.

Insider Tip: The park offers a push for the Neolithic experience further, thanks to its real cave visits and reconstructed Neolithic village.

Xploria exhibit credit xploria.com

Forêt de Castagnès Route de Sabarat 09290 Le Mas-d’Azil, France

22. Xploria, Le Mas-d’Azil, France

Exploria is one of those amazing dinosaur fossil parks, buried in nature with tons of activities to keep little hands busy. If you are looking for digging sites with shade and want to learn about the local biodiversity, this prehistoric forest is the one to go.

Info: Tickets start at $10/adult and $8/kids. – Only open in season. – Great shaded picnic tables available – Composting Bathroom on-site.

Insider Tip: This is a great spot for younger kids since they have a shaded playground and a fully stroller-accessible path throughout.

Prehistoric Roadside Attractions To Add To Your Dinosaur Parks Trip

Dinausaure Mini Golf -Raptor Falls
1912 Portland Rd, Arundel, ME 04046, USA

Dinausaur Trail Playground with the world’s largest dinosaur replica.
1381 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y1, Canada

Dinosaur Museum
8973 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702, USA

Dinosaur Park Playground
41 Altezze Dr, Truganina VIC 3029, Australia

Cabazon Dinosaurs – World’s Biggest Dinosaurs
50770 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230

Plage aux ptérosaures – Beach with exclavation site visit
Mas de Pegourdy, 46150 Crayssac, France

Dinosaur Park, Kalasin, Thailand – Cool photo-op
MG78+MWH, Ni Khom, Sahatsakhan District, Kalasin 46140, Thailand

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28 Fun Things To Do in Myrtle Beach with Kids

Maud — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 19:33:00 +0000

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USA / Canada

28 Fun Things To Do in Myrtle Beach with Kids

July 11, 2023

Beach Vacation, Road Trip, Spring, Summer, USA / Canada

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The ultimate summer destination for a family vacation near the ocean with a fun twist!

You can spend a few days hitting all the Myrtle Beach attractions! And after that, the entire family can enjoy more bonding time, while strolling the streets of local coastal towns, eating delicious food at the nearby restaurants, and enjoying some evening activities.

But this South Carolina gem has much more to offer! From Wax museums to marine life exhibits and beautiful nearby state parks, families with kids can fill a whole week of discoveries and unique experiences as well.

If you are looking for things to do with children and get to know the area like longtime myrtle beach local families do, then look no further. We have pulled a great list of the best kid-friendly places recommended by local parents and traveling families.

Planning a family vacation to Myrtle Beach Tips

When planning your trip to Myrtle Beach with little ones, don’t forget these tips, so you can maximize your time there.

Check the local towns website to have a full calendar of local events in the area, this way you may be able to organize your days around some cool shows or plan your trip around busy times to escape the crowds.
Download the Gowhee App, it will be super handy once onsite to find everything from unique attractions, museums, and parents’ recommendations on restaurants. You can even use it to plan your trip ahead of time by saving interesting children-friendly activities in your “bucket list” directly on the app.
Make sure to pack properly for the weather conditions, and use this checklist of things you need to pack to be fully prepared.

Classic Myrtle Beach Family Attractions

1. See Your Favorite Celebrities at the Hollywood Wax Museum

You might not be able to meet your favorite celebrities in person, but the sculptures at the Hollywood Wax Museum are the next-best thing!

Key Information: $32.99/$17.99 – Stroller friendly – Discounts available

Good To Know: An all-attraction pass is only $3 more and gets you into two more fun attractions.

2. Ride the Myrtle Beach Skywheel

See everything from nearly 200 feet up in the air on one of Myrtle Beach’s most popular attractions. The Myrtle Beach Skywheel gives you incredible views from climate-controlled gondolas.

Key Information: $16.99/$12.99 – Each flight is about 30 minutes – Fully wheelchair/scooter accessible

Good To Know: For a one-of-a-kind experience, do the early morning Sunrise Flight. You’ll get to see the sunrise over the water and enjoy an assortment of tasty pastries and coffee.

3. Be Amazed at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! in Myrtle Beach is home to over 200 mind-boggling exhibits, featuring oddities, art, and amazing pieces of natural history. You and your kids can explore the bizarre and marvel at the mysterious at the Myrtle Beach Odditorium.

Key Information: $24.99 adults/$14.99 kids – Stroller friendly – Plan for at least an hour.

Good To Know: Don’t miss the life-size metal T. rex– your dino-loving kids will insist on getting a picture with it!

Best Things To Do With Young Children

4. Cool Off at Wild Water & Wheels

What do you do when one kid wants to play mini golf, one kid wants to visit the water park, and one kid wants to race go-karts? Simple! You go to Wild Water and Wheels, Myrtle Beach’s premier location for family fun. There are even kiddie rides for the smallest family members. Everyone will have a great time at Wild Water and Wheels!

Key Information: Admission starts at $26.99 for people 48 inches and up/$16.99 for kids 47 inches and under – Food onsite – Restrooms with changing stations

Good To Know: Admission discounts available– find the admissions package that’s right

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Visit Myrtle Beach with Thrill Rides

5. Race Your Family at Broadway Grand Prix

Children love go-karts, and when you race with your whole family at Broadway Grand Prix race park, you’ll have the fastest fun in Myrtle Beach.

Key Information: Passes start at $37 – Kids must be 40 inches or taller – Kiddie rides available for kids too short to drive

Good To Know: After your race, relax with some mini golf at one of the park’s two courses.

6. Ride the Coasters at Family Kingdom Amusement Park

Enjoy one of Myrtle Beach’s most family-friendly amusement parks, Family Kingdom! There are plenty of thrilling rides for little kids, big kids, and kids at heart.

Key Information: Unlimited rides for $32.95 – Individual ride tickets also available – Stroller friendly

Good To Know: There is no admission fee– you only pay if you’re going to ride.

Free Myrtle Beach Activities For All

7. Splash in the Atlantic on the Grand Strand

Myrtle Beach is located on a stretch of coastline called the Grand Strand and is known for its beaches. You can’t visit this vacation destination without playing in the Atlantic Ocean!

Key Information: FREE beach access in many locations – 114 different beach access points – Many beaches have snacks and services

Good To Know: If anyone in your party needs a beach wheelchair, both North and South Myrtle Beach have free wheelchairs available .

8. Explore an Award-Winning Playground

Savannah’s Playground is a safe place for every child to play to their heart’s content. It features soft surfaces and accessible play for kids with and without disabilities. Everyone is welcome at Savannah’s Playground!

Key Information: FREE – Water bottle refill stations available – Four bathrooms with changing stations

Good To Know: Savannah’s Playground is closed on Tuesday mornings until 12:00 PM for maintenance.

9. Enjoy a Unique Shopping Experience at Barefoot Landing

Barefoot Landing is a unique, popular dining and shopping experience that’s a must-do destination in Myrtle Beach. It’s home to dozens of shops, restaurants, and family attractions like a vintage carousel and the musical acts at the Alabama Theater.

Key Information: FREE – Stroller friendly – Lots of dining options

Good To Know: Register for a free Preferred Member Card to save at multiple locations within Barefoot Landing.

10. Explore Broadway at the Beach

Broadway at the Beach is the “main drag” of the Myrtle Beach Area, showcasing the most popular attractions and providing fun for everyone. Stroll along Broadway and enjoy tasty treats and the sights and sounds of an endless summer.

Key Information: FREE – Attractions have fees – Stroller friendly

Good To Know: There are tons of places to eat and shop along this popular street.

Mini Golf Courses

11. Play on a Dinosaur-Themed Mini Golf Course

Mini golf is classic family fun, and Myrtle Beach has a super cool dinosaur-themed mini golf course that will have you roaring with laughter and fun.

Key Information: All-day pass is $15.50 – Best for kids at least 36 inches tall – Snacks available

Good To Know: The parent company frequently has coupons available!

12. Play 36 Holes at Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Golf

Mt. Atlanticus is a 36-hole mini golf course featuring dramatic sea life, waterfall caves, and so much more. Both the Minotaur and the Conch courses feature fun hole design and creative decor– and once you get to the mountaintop golf huts, an amazing view of Myrtle Beach!

Key Information: All-day play for $12 – Fully ADA/stroller accessible – Food nearby

Good To Know: If you get a hole-in-1 on the 19th hole, you get your picture on the wall and free mini-golf for life!

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For Kids in Myrtle Beach With a Sweet Tooth!

13. Eat Some Ice Cream While Exploring the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

Nothing says “summer magic” like eating ice cream on a beach boardwalk. Mad Myrtle’s has been serving scoops for twenty years, and their classic and innovative flavors are sure to please.

Key Information: Dairy-free options – Wheelchair accessible – Prices vary

Good To Know: The staff goes out of their way to accommodate allergies– they’ll open up a new tub and use new scoopers for people with nut allergies, for instance.

14. Visit the “Apple Store” of Candy

I LOVE SUGAR is an incredible candy store that’s more than just a shop– it’s a candy experience. Kids can make their own candy mixes with every kind of candy imaginable. You can get the world’s largest gummy bears and gummy worms, vintage candy, and candy in shapes beyond your wildest dreams. Gummy pickles anyone?

Key Information: FREE to visit – Candy costs money – The store can get crowded, so not always stroller-friendly

Good To Know: Definitely eat first so that you aren’t shopping here hungry– after all, this is all candy!

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Rainy Day Activities With Children

15. Spend The Day at Fun Warehouse

There’s a ton of family-friendly fun at the Fun Warehouse! Bounce on inflatables, race on go-karts, play laser tag , and so much more! You can spend half an hour or all day, depending on what your family likes doing.

Key Information: Priced per activity – Food onsite – No outside food or drinks allowed

Good To Know: The inflatables and soft play activities require socks– don’t forget yours!

16. Get Busy Learning at WonderWorks Myrtle Beach

At WonderWorks, kids can explore things and play and have the time of their lives in an upside-down building. They’ll never realize that they’re learning about the wonders of nature!

Key Information: $31.99/$25.99 – Ropes course minimum height is 42 inches – Wear closed-toe shoes

Good To Know: WonderWorks offers an online discount !

17. Play On Classic Pinball Machines at Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum

Introduce your kids to the bells and whistles of old-school cool at the Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum. With hundreds of machines, mostly from the 80s and 90s, your kids will have a blast learning how to become pinball wizards.

Key Information: Admission is $12 per hour – Admission includes unlimited play – No food or drinks allowed

Good To Know: Book in advance, because the museum reaches capacity quickly.

Available on

Myrtle Beach Family Activities: Aquariums and Zoos.

18. See Native Wildlife at Brookgreen Gardens Low country Zoo

The Brookgreen Gardens are home to a sculpture park, botanical gardens, and zoo, where you can meet native wildlife like endangered red wolves , river otters, and more.

Key Information: $20/$10 – Food onsite – Stroller friendly

Good To Know: Tickets are good for 7 consecutive days of admission to the whole park.

19. Get Face To Face with Alligators

Alligators are awesome, and at Alligator Adventure you can get face to face with these ancient predators, including a super rare albino alligator and many other animals

Key Information: $32.99/$22.99 – Food onsite – Stroller friendly

Good To Know: Don’t forget to say hi to Bob, the family-favorite tailless alligator! She was born at the park without a tail and has been greeting guests since 1997.

20. Explore Exotic Sealife at Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach

Visiting the marine life at Ripley’s Aquarium is the perfect activity for a rainy day at Myrtle Beach. Meet sharks, penguins, rays, and more! Don’t miss the glass-bottom boat tour, either– only 3 inches of glass separates you from the water. It’s the best way to see the sharks!

Key Information: Adult admission is $39.99 – Stroller friendly – Restrooms with changing tables

Good To Know: Kids love the Breakfast With A Mermaid program.

Myrtle Beach Family Fun With a Theme!

21. See a Live Show at Medieval Times

Watch brave knights joust as you eat a feast fit for a king in Medieval Times! Afterward, say hello to the beautiful horses or check out the Museum of Torture if you’re brave enough!

Key Information: $65.95/$38.95 – ADA accessible – Kids under 3 are free

Good To Know: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are available.

22. Go On a Pirate Ship Adventure

Avast, me hearties! Take your whole crew on their very own pirate ship adventure with Blackbeard’s Pirate Cruise, where your little scallywags will search for treasure, have a sword fight, and take part in a water cannon battle!

Key Information: Tickets start at $28 for adults – The cruise lasts 60-90 minutes – Bring your own beverages

Good To Know: Even though you’ll be sailing on the calm waters of the intercostal waterway, Blackbeard’s Pirate Cruise is still on a ship. This means that you should definitely pack a folding stroller– a big stroller won’t be safe to take aboard.

23. Enjoy a Pirate-Themed Dinner Show

The coast of South Carolina was once home to dozens of pirate vessels, and the Pirates Voyage dinner show pays homage to the seafarers of yore. Enjoy a four-course feast while Blackbeard and Calico Jack lead their pirate ships in battle!

Key Information: $69.99/$34.99 – Allergy-friendly dining options available – ADA Accessible

Good To Know: The dining facility cannot accommodate strollers or car seats.

Myrtle Beach Water Parks

24. Spend a Day at Myrtle Waves Water Park

What makes children smile above all things in the summer? A trip to a water park of course! And when you splash in the wave pool or ride the slides at Myrtle Waves Water Park, you’ll see why.

Key Information: Admission starts at $27 – Food onsite – Restrooms with changing tables available

Good To Know: The park has a Friday special– from 3 PM until 8 PM, tickets are only $15.

Other Fun Things To Do With Kids During A Myrtle Beach Family Vacation

25. Enjoy a Scenic Walk in Myrtle Beach State Park

The beautiful Myrtle Beach State Park is home to beautiful beaches and an amazing fishing pier. You can fish, camp, birdwatch, or just enjoy some of nature’s finest views.

Key Information: $8 admission – Leashed pets allowed – Grilling allowed

Good To Know: The two stores in the park have free Wi-Fi.

26. See Vintage Attractions at The Pavilion Nostalgia Park

Once upon a time, the Myrtle Beach Pavilion Park was the premiere Myrtle Beach attraction. Even though the park is closed, the fun lives on at the Pavilion Nostalgia Park , where visitors can ride the original 1912 carousel and many other rides.

Key Information: FREE admission – Pay by ride – Food onsite

Good To Know: The food at the park is carnival snack style– but there are plenty of nearby restaurants for a more substantial meal.

27. Get Some Energy Out at the Ultimate Trampoline Park

Get those jiggles out at the Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park! Voted the best trampoline park in the state, Rockin’ Jump is tons of fun for the whole family.

Key Information: All-day pass is $25.99 – Food onsite – Socks required

Good To Know: Rockin’ Jump has special hours and pricing for toddlers-only safe play.

28. Check Out the Batting Cages at Hawaiian Rumble

Hawaiian Rumble Mini Golf is home to some of the best mini golf in the Myrtle Beach Area– but it’s also home to some of the best batting cages, too! Let your little sluggers have fun going up against the Iron Mike pitching machines.

Key Information: $3 per token – 1 token gets you 15 pitches – Fastpitch and slowpitch softball and baseball available

Good To Know: This attraction is best for kids who already know how to hit.

If you loved this guide to visiting Myrtle Beach with kids, be sure to share it with your friends and family by choosing one of the options below!

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The Best Parent Guide of Things To Do in St. Louis with Kids

contentcucumber — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 11:30:16 +0000

The Best Parent Guide of Things To Do in St. Louis with Kids

March 1, 2023

City Escape, Cultural Trip, Fall, Off-the-beaten-paths, Road Trip, Spring, Summer, USA / Canada, Winter

Title 2

The St. Louis area is a great destination for families visiting the Midwest of the United States. Many places for families are free or have budget-friendly options, there is a great mix of outdoor fun and indoor activities for rainy days and we found some cool activities on the GoWhee App that parents will enjoy too.

So pack your bags for the Getaway city and let’s go!

1. Let Your Imagination Run Wild at The Magic House Children’s Museum

Kids can learn by playing at the Magic House Children’s Museum.

Key Information: Admission is $12 – food onsite – restrooms with changing tables

Good To Know: Check the special exhibits– they have a partnership with PBS and have tie-ins with some of your kids’ favorite shows.

2. Discover Animals from Around the World at the Saint Louis Zoo

The St. Louis Zoo is home to hundreds of animals including kid favorites like elephants and polar bears.

Key Information: FREE – stroller-friendly – food onsite

Good To Know: All guests must reserve free-timed tickets in advance.

3. Spend a Day Eating & Playing at Eckert’s Country Store & Restaurant

Visit a real working farm at Eckert’s! You can pick your own produce, enjoy a pony or camel ride, and eat at their country restaurant.

Key Information: Field pass + produce starts at $15 – stroller-friendly – lots of food options

Good To Know: Kids eat free on Thursdays.

4. Push Your Limits at Upper Limits in Downtown St. Louis

Active kids will love Upper Limits, an indoor rock climbing gym. You can even host birthday parties there!

Key Information: Day passes are $18/$16 for kids – not good for toddlers or babies – free parking

Good To Know: Upper Limits has rock walls for all skill levels.

5. See Giant Clydesdales & More at Grant’s Farm

Grant’s Farm is the historic home of the Busch family… and over 900 farm animals, including some of the famous Budweiser Clydesdales.

Key Information: Passes start at $15 – food onsite – best for kids 5 and up

Good To Know: Don’t miss seeing the cabin President Ulysses S Grant built himself!

6. Take a Walk Through Gateway Arch National Park

You can walk through Gateway Arch National Park or take a tram to the top of the Arch.

Key Information: Basic admission is $3 – the park is stroller friendly – food is onsite.

Good To Know: You can’t take strollers on the Arch trams.

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7. Keep Little Ones Busy at Myseum

Myseum is a hands-on museum that lets kids have fun through the power of play and imagination.

Key Information: Admission is $10.95 for kids/$5.95 for adults – FREE parking – best for kids 2-12

Good To Know: Socks are required to protect toes in active exhibits.

>>> Like the Myseum? Find more museums like this, here.

8. Enjoy Endless Activities at Kokomo Joe’s

There’s tons of family fun at Kokomo Joe’s. Have a blast playing laser tag, riding bumper cars and go-karts, and much more.

Key Information: Activities priced individually – food onsite – kids-only play areas

Good To Know: Little kids really love mini bowling, which uses smaller balls.

>>>MUST READ: Theme Parks and attractions in Missouri for Kids<<<

9. See Big Cats Up Close at Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary

Meet and greet rescued tigers in a beautiful setting.

Key Information: Tours start at $10 – stroller-friendly – tours are 45-90 minutes

Good To Know: Don’t miss sampling Fizzy Izzy Root Beer, which is named after one of the sanctuary’s tigers!

10. Explore the Whimsical City Museum

The City Museum in St. Louis is an old warehouse that has been turned into a huge playground with miles of tunnels and slides.

Key Information: $18 – food onsite – toddler play area

Good To Know: The toddler area is on the 3rd floor.

11. Spend a Day on the Mississippi River

See what it’s like to canoe, kayak, or paddleboard with Big Muddy Adventures!

Key Information: Prices vary – best for kids 6+ – rent for a day or take a guided tour

Good To Know: The guided adventure trips are lots of fun.

12. Explore Forest Park’s Natural Playscape

Forest Park is a place where kids can connect with nature as they explore, discover, and learn.

Key Information: FREE – pet-friendly – restrooms nearby

Good To Know: Toddlers and older kids can all enjoy the playscape.

>>> Discover more outdoors adventures near you, here.

13. Experience a Thrill Ride at Six Flags St. Louis

Six Flags St. Louis has a lot of fun for big and little kids.

Key Information: Tickets start at $34.99 – food onsite – rides for all ages

Good To Know: Admission includes the waterpark.

14. Ride the St. Louis Wheel

See St. Louis like never before when you ride this 240-foot observation wheel!

Key Information: Adults $15, kids $10 – 15 minute rides – located at Union Station

Good To Know: Strollers are not permitted in gondolas, but they have stroller parking

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15. Enjoy a Walk in Laumeier Sculpture Park

Get close to art at the Laumeier Sculpture Park.

Key Information: FREE – public restrooms available – bring your own food

Good To Know: Laumeier Sculpture Park has one of the 30/30 trails– 30 hikes that can be completed in about 30 minutes and are perfect for kids.

16. Introduce Kids to Fine Art at the Saint Louis Art Museum

The St. Louis Art Museum is a great place to teach kids about art.

Key Information: FREE – free stroller rental – food onsite

Good To Know: Some exhibits require a fee.

>>> Find more kid-friendly museum in the St Louis area.

17. Eat & Play at St. Louis’ Union Station

Union Station is home to restaurants and attractions like the St. Louis Aquarium.

Key Information: FREE – attractions require fees – stroller friendly

Good To Know: Kids love the cupcakes at the bakery.

18. Learn About Health & The Body at HealthWorks!

HealthWorks teaches kids about the body and lets them play INSIDE a giant skeleton!

Key Information: $7 – closed Sunday/Monday – no food onsite

Good To Know: Don’t miss the world’s largest teeth!

19. Visit Willoughby Heritage Farm & Discover Acres of Wildlife

Learn all about farm life in the 1940s and see midwestern wildlife.

Key Information: FREE – pet-friendly – public restrooms

Good To Know: The farm also has playgrounds just for kids.

Available on

20. Entertain Curious Kids with a Visit To the Saint Louis Science Center

The St. Louis Science Center lets kids learn about the world through play and experimentation.

Key Information: FREE – some exhibits have fees – food onsite

Good To Know: The flight simulators are very popular with kids.

21. See a Bird Show at the World Bird Sanctuary

You can see birds from all over at the World Bird Sanctuary, and even get to meet and handle some of them.

Key Information: $8 per car – $10 show tickets – public restrooms available

Good To Know: For an extra-special treat, you can paint with Sprinkles the Emu!

>>> Find tons of animal experiences in Missouri and globally, here.

22. Get Some Energy Out at Monkey Joe’s

At Monkey Joe’s, everything is designed for fun.

Key Information: Admission is $11.99 for kids (adults are free) – food onsite – play as long as you want

Good To Know: Even toddlers can have a safe, fun time playing in the Mini Monkey Zone.

23. Get Wild at Cabela’s

Even if you’re not shopping for anything specific, kids enjoy the cool decor and huge aquarium at the Cabela’s at Mills Mall.

Key Information: FREE – free parking – food nearby

Good To Know: Cabela’s sells a lot of good car snacks.

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27. Go On an Adventure to Big Joel’s Safari

Big Joel’s Safari lets you get close enough to touch and feed lots of animals.

Key Information: $12 adults/$10 kids – no food allowed- rough trails

Good To Know: A season pass pays for itself after 2-3 visits.

28. Visit the Oldest Library West of the Mississippi

There’s more than books at the Mercantile Library– they have fun exhibits, including a brand new railroad exhibit.

Key Information: FREE – no food or drink allowed – restrooms onsite

Good To Know: The library is closed when the campus is closed.

29. Build Confidence at Ultimate Ninjas

At Ultimate Ninjas, kids have fun building strength, endurance, and confidence.

Key Information: Classes are $25 – classes available for kids 2+ – classes last about an hour

Good To Know: The first class is FREE!

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30. Take a Day Trip to Lone Elk Park

Lone Elk Park is a beautiful place to hike and watch wildlife.

Key Information: FREE – restrooms in visitor center – bring snacks

Good To Know: Lone Elk has one of the 30/30 trails– 30 kid-friendly hikes that can be completed in about 30 minutes.

31. See a Musical at The Fabulous Fox

The Fabulous Fox Theatre hosts lots of fun shows.

Key Information: Ticket prices start around $45 – restaurant next door – no outside food allowed

Good To Know: It is strongly recommended that kids be 5+.

Did you enjoy this parent guide of things to do in St Louis with kids? Then pay it forward and share this article with friends and family to help them plan their trip at ease, by selecting one of the option below.

26 Things to do in Boston with Kids

Betsy001 — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 17:51:30 +0000

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26 Things to do in Boston with Kids

January 30, 2023

City Escape, Cultural Trip, Fall, Food Travel, Road Trip, Spring, Summer, USA / Canada, Winter

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Boston is chock full of things to do with kids! There are also tons of educational opportunities the kids have, all while having fun. From nature trails to playgrounds, historical sites, boat rides, kid-friendly restaurants, and museums, boredom will not be an option. Enjoy all that Boston has to offer with your family and make those precious memories!

Here is a list of the best things to do in Boston with kids, that parents of the Gowhee App recommend.

1. Take a Kid-Friendly Freedom Trail Tour

Boston’s Freedom Trail might be a little long for small kids, but they don’t have to miss out on the fun. The Boston By Little Feet walk is designed for young walkers ages 6-12 and their families.

Key Information: $8 per person – Takes 30 minutes to 1 hour – Stroller friendly.

Good To Know: Several of the stops on the tour, including the Old State House and Faneuil Hall, have public restrooms in case your kids need a break.

2. Grab Lunch In a Real Irish Pub Near Downtown Boston

When visiting Boston, you will need to stop at least once in an Irish pub. The Green Dragon Tavern, located right off Boston Public Market, has it all. Spacious for large families, friendly staff, great food and beers on tap for the parents.

Key Information: Wheelchair accessible – High chair onsite – Stroller friendly.

Good To Know: There is no dedicated kids menu but the regular menu offers tons of options even for the pickiest eaters.

3. Sightsee on a Duck Bus

See Boston in a whole new way on a Duck Bus tour! These amphibious vehicles let you see the sights of Boston from the streets and from the water. It’s a new, fun way to see favorite sites like Fenway Park, the Bunker Hill Monument, Quincy Market, and more.

Key Information: $48.99 per adult, $33.99 per kid ages 3-11, $10.99 for kids under 3 – Stroller friendly – Wheelchair accessible

Good To Know: The Duck tours pick up and drop off at the Science Museum, New England Aquarium, and the Prudential Center, so plan accordingly and you can do activities before or after the tour!

4. Enjoy a Playground with a View

Martin’s Park playground is located right across the bridge from downtown and is the perfect place to keep kids busy for hours! There are two large sections, completely fenced in with ground covered with soft material. The best part is this Boston playground offers a fantastic view of the skylines.

Key Information: FREE – Great for age 3-12 – Waldorf, Montessori inspired – Shade and splash pad on site.

Good To Know: It is a fully enclosed playground, but there are two entrances so you will want to stay in the section the kids are playing at.

5. Check Out the Skinniest House in Boston

Located not far from the Old North Church and the Paul Revere House, this cool building is hidden between two other houses and a great opportunity to chat about architecture with the whole family. Note that you do not enter the house since it is private property, but worth a little look nonetheless.

Key Information: FREE – Wheelchairs and strollers will have a hard time on the walkway since it narrows and gets bumpy.

Good To Know: Stretch that visit further and head over the local playground in the north end on Commercial Street.

6. Take a Spooky Tour of Salem

Most kids love a good ghost story, but sometimes they can be a little too scary. That is why tours specially designed for kids are so great! Your kids can have a great time learning about Salem and getting a little scared– but not too scared.

Key Information: $17 for adults, $12 for kids – Plan for 1 hour of walking – Stroller friendly

Good To Know: These tours are best for kids ages 6 and up.

>>>MUST-READ:Epic Family Road trip: New York City to Montreal<<<

7. Splash in the Frog Pond at Boston Commons

Cool off in the summer by playing in the Frog Pond splash pad. Even the littlest kids can enjoy splashing in the water. It’s only ankle-deep so kids don’t need to wear life jackets, although they do need to be supervised.

Key Information: FREE – Bathrooms in season – Wheelchair accessible

Good To Know: The splash pad is open April through October but in the winter the pond opens for ice skating.

8. Take a Break & Enjoy a Sweet Treat at JP Licks

Local treat shop JP Licks is a celebration of all things sweet and dairy. Settle in with an ice cream cone, frozen yogurt, or sundae– or enjoy a cup of coffee, roasted at the main JP Licks store in Jamaica Plains.

Key Information: Prices vary by location – Gluten-free and dairy-free options available at all locations – 17 locations in the greater Boston area

Good To Know: If you’re by the original store in Jamaica Plains, you’ll know it– just look for the giant cow head on the second story!

9. Take a hike with a city view in the Fells

The Middlesex Fells Reservations, is a great state park a few minutes drive outside of Boston. The long pond nature trail is an easy 0.9 miles loop around the reservoir that offers the perfect opportunity for a family day in nature.

Key Information: FREE – Pet-friendly – Parking nearby – Not wheelchair accessible – Not recommended for strollers.

Good To Know: A local school funded the construction of the trail and made educational cards. The cards teach kids about the local animals and plants along the way.

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10. Visit the Red Pandas at the Franklin Park Zoo

At the Franklin Park Zoo, kids can get up close and personal with some incredible animals, including adorable red pandas. Your little ones can play right next to them on the zoo’s Bamboo Climber.

Key Information: $19.95 for adults, $13.95 for kids under 12 – Plan for several hours to half a day – Food onsite.

Good To Know: Franklin Park Zoo is open year-round, and their tropical rainforest building is a great place to warm up!

11. Take a Ride on the Famous Swan Boat at the Public Garden

Experience one of Boston’s oldest traditions at the Boston Public Garden and ride a swan boat with your kids. These swan-shaped boats have been owned by the Pagett family since the 1870s. You will enjoy taking in the sights and sounds of the Public Garden.

Key Information: $4.50 for adults, $3 for kids, FREE for kids under 2 – Limited stroller storage on boats – Wheelchair accessible.

Good To Know: Look for Romeo and Juliet, the real swans that live in the lagoon!

12. Climb a 3-Story Jungle Gym at the Boston Children’s Museum

The Boston Children’s Museum is the perfect place to spend time indoors on a rainy day or hot summer day. They have 3 stories worth of exhibits for kids of all ages, and extremely clean and unique exhibits like a Japanese house to visit. But the kids will especially enjoy the gigantic jungle gym, where they can safely climb all the levels one by one.

Key Information: Tickets are $18 – There is room to store large items and strollers – Completely accessible.

Good To Know: You can enjoy the whole museum for $1 per person on Sunday Afternoons.

13. Play Tree Bingo While Touring a Garden

The public gardens in Boston commons are an amazing place to walk around with kids on a nice day. Take a self-guided tour with a fun tree bingo game around the park using the map provided on their site, or book a kid’s walking tour of the garden.

Key Information: FREE – Wheelchair accessible – Food nearby in season – Pet friendly (on leash.)

Good To Know: Kids will love the statue of the little ducklings, a must-stop.

14. Learn About STEM at the Museum of Science

At the Museum of Science, your kids can build, experiment, and explore with hands-on exhibits that teach them about science, technology, engineering, and math.

Key Information: $29 for adults, $24 for kids – Food onsite – Bathrooms with changing tables.

Good To Know: The Museum of Science is very accessible and will provide sighted guides for blind guests and ASL interpreters if you call about two weeks in advance.

15. Escape the city and enjoy the ocean breeze on Castle Island

Take a break from the city landscape and head over to Fort Independence. There you will find a great park to walk and enjoy the ocean breeze and water view. Kids will love to look and learn about the Fort as well as hit the big playground near the entrance.

Key Information: FREE – Path is stroller and wheelchair friendly – Food onsite – Shaded spots available.

Good To Know: There is a family-friendly beach right next to the fort to make a day out of it. The whole area is pet-friendly too.

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16. Board a Pirate Ship in Salem

Salem isn’t just known for its witches– it has a much longer history of being a pirate stronghold! Take a tour through a pirate cave, the old Salem docks, and onto a reconstructed pirate ship! Reenactors bring the experience to life. They represent historical pirates who worked out of Salem.

Key Information: $13 for adults, $10 for kids – Tour lasts around 30 minutes – Wheelchair accessible (ramp at the rear entrance)

Good To Know: The pirate ship dock can be slippery when wet, so hang on to your little ones’ hands.

17. Discover the House of the Seven Gables

The House of Seven Gables has been telling stories for 350 years. Your kids can unlock those stories through exploration. Kids can learn 17th-century skills in the living history lab, play colonial-era games on the lawn, and even ring a ship’s bell.

Key Information: $20 for adults and $12 for children – Historic buildings are not entirely wheelchair accessible – No food onsite

Good To Know: If your kids aren’t up for a tour and you just want to spend time on the grounds without going in, a grounds pass is $5 per person

18. Island-Hop On a Ferry Cruise

There’s lots to do for families on the Boston Harbor Islands. In addition to enjoying nature and the fun ferry rides, kids can fly kites and swim on Spectacle Island. On Georges Island, they can learn about the legend of the Lady in Black or explore the Revolutionary War era fort that became a Civil War prison!

Key Information: Ferry tickets are $24.95 for adults, $17.95 for kids – Some islands have snack carts and concessions – Georges, Spectacle, and Peddocks Islands have bathrooms.

Good To Know: Kids can complete free activity booklets and earn a Junior Ranger badge by turning in the book to any ranger!

Available on

18. Island-Hop On a Ferry Cruise

Key Information: Ferry tickets are $24.95 for adults, $17.95 for kids – Some islands have snack carts and concessions – Georges, Spectacle, and Peddocks Islands have bathrooms.

Good To Know: Kids can complete free activity booklets and earn a Junior Ranger badge by turning in the book to any ranger!

19. Go To a Fancy Italian Restaurant in North End

Boston has an amazing “little Italy” neighborhood known as North End. Don’t be nervous when you walk into Ristorante Saraceno! You will see white table cloths and glassware, but the owners will treat the kids like family.

The food is delicious and authentic, and to make the dining experience extra special, the staff is always super friendly.

Key Information: Wheelchair Accessible – High chair available- Quiet, so great for little ones taking naps.

Good To Know: Although there is no dedicated kids’ menu, the chef is happy to make any variation you need for the kids.

20. Step Back In Time To Learn About the Boston Tea Party

Living history is a fun way for kids to learn about their country. At the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, you can participate in a town meeting, sneak aboard British sailing ships, and throw real tea into Boston Harbor.

Key Information: $29.95 for adults, $21.95 for kids – Food onsite – Strollers must be parked in designated stroller areas.

Good To Know: You can actually taste the same kind of tea thrown into the harbor at the onsite tea room!

21. Discover Life As a Pilgrim

The Plimoth Patuxet Museum is more than a museum– it’s living history! Kids can talk to “pilgrims” (played by reenactors) at the 17th century English Village, explore the Mayflower II, and much more,

Key Information: Tickets start at $32 for adults and $19 for kids – Free parking – Food onsite

Good To Know: The café serves modern favorites and 17th-century classics, and is not to be missed.

22. Stargaze at Coit Observatory

Gaze into space at Boston University’s Coit Observatory. Every Wednesday night, starting at 7:30 in the fall and winter and 8:30 in the spring and summer, you and your family can observe the cosmos and see stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies.

Key Information: FREE – Best for kids ages 6 and up – Highly weather dependent

Good To Know: Stargazing is free, but you do need to reserve a spot.

23. Get Building at the LEGO Discovery Center

Kids can get creative and build to their hearts’ content at the LEGO Discovery Center. There are rides, incredible sculptures and figures, and lots of interactive fun for kids!

Key Information: Tickets start at $19.99 per person – Food onsite – Wheelchair accessible.

Good To Know: Adults must be accompanied by at least one kid under 17 to enjoy the LEGO Discovery Center – the experience is catered to children.

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24. Make Friends with Lobsters at the New England Aquarium

Over 600 species live at the New England Aquarium, and one of them is the beloved American “Lobstah.” You can see rare white and blue-colored lobsters, as well as the typical brown lobsters. You can even take a whale watching tour from the aquarium!

Key Information: Adults $32, Kids $23, Kids under 3 FREE – Food On-Site – Fully Accessible & Sensory Inclusive.

Good To Know: Food at the cafe is affordable, and comes with a fabulous view of the harbor!

25. Ride the Greenway Carousel

The Greenway Carousel is inspired by Boston’s wildlife and children’s creativity. Kids and adults can all enjoy a whimsical, enchanting ride together.

Key Information: Tickets $4 – Wheelchair Accessible – Food Nearby – Dogs On-Leash Welcome.

Good To Know: The Greenway Carousel is known as Boston’s most accessible carousel, and features wheelchair accessibility.

26. Sail back in time at the USS Constitution

Discover the history of the oldest boat commissioned by the U.S Navy. Kids can learn about the life of a typical 1812 sail man, try their hand on knots and even check out the impressive Lego structure on board.

Key information: Free – Bathroom onsite – Security screening is mandatory to go in

Good to know: The tour leaves every half hour and is self guided once you get on board of the boat.

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Road Trip with Toddlers? 10 Best Tips

contentcucumber — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 12:11:39 +0000

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Taking a Road Trip with Toddlers? 10 Best Tips.

Traveling with kids always requires some organization, but taking a long road trip with toddlers just adds another layer of stress. That said, kids are much more likely to enjoy the ride if their schedule and comfort are taken into consideration.

Traveling families of the GoWhee App shared their favorite tips for a stress-free road trip with toddlers. It is never too early to start discovering with kids! Enjoy.

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1. Travel According To Your Kiddo’s Schedule

By the time your kid is a toddler, you’ll know when and how they like to sleep. Plan your road trip so that you’re working with their schedule as much as possible. If you drive at night or leave early in the morning, they might spend a lot of the car ride sleeping.

You should pay attention to nap times and get long stretches of driving in while the kids are snoozing. It’ll cut down on the “are we there yet” question, and it’ll be quieter while you’re driving. Planning your drive time this way will also make your kids more comfortable!

Pro tip: Install suction black-out shades on the car windows to help kids sleep longer during the daytime.

2. Take Breaks Often

Taking breaks during long car trips is important. Taking breaks will let your kids get some energy out and stretch their legs. You can play games like freeze tag or statues when you get out at a rest stop or park– letting the kids run around for a while will make it much easier to get back in the car when it’s time to get moving again.

Stops can also make road trips more memorable and let everybody have some fun on the way to the destination.

>>>Pro Tip: Use the GoWhee app to find playgrounds, rest stops, and other activities on your route!

3. Have Appropriate Expectations

When you’re taking a long road trip, it’s important to remember that toddlers don’t have the same tolerance for a long drive that you might. Break family road trips into chunks, and don’t overestimate a toddler’s ability to tolerate a long car ride. Remember that toddlers experience the world differently than we do as parents, and have different feelings and expectations about what they’re experiencing.

Pro tip: Use visual aids like photos or videos, of your destination to help them get excited about where you are going and help with patience issues.

4. Pack a Change of Clothes for Everyone

No matter how you’re traveling, one of our favorite travel tips is to pack a change of clothes for everyone. Even if you’re all together in the car, you never know when something might spill or a mess might get made. If you keep a change of clothes for everyone in your personal bags, you don’t have to go digging around in your suitcase if accidents happen during family travel.

Pro tip: Use a packing cube with an extra outfit for everyone so it won’t take up a lot of space and will be easy to pull out if something happens and you need an extra change of clothes.

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5. Go Mess & Sound Free

When you’re driving, the sounds and lights from a tablet or phone can be very distracting, and that’s not safe. Instead, choose quiet toys that won’t be distracting and will keep your backseat from getting too messy. The best toddler car toys are quiet but interactive– activity books can also be fun, and you can get triangular crayons that won’t roll around as much or choose a water-based coloring book.

Pro tip: Road trip games are also fun– just make sure to choose ones that work with little kids’ shorter attention spans!

6. Pack Lots of Snacks

Kids need road trip snacks on long car rides, and they like variety. When you pack snacks, you should try to cut down on sugar. Stay organized and makeup containers in advance using spill-proof snack containers.

Pro tip: If they only want sugary treats, try using a “this or that” option– ask them if they want grapes or carrots, for example. This makes it easier to limit their choices to the snacks you’re happy with them having. Drinks are also important. Bring reusable bottles for every member of the family.

Pro tip: Traveling families recommend sticking to water as much as possible, because if anything spills, it can get sticky and annoying to clean up.

>>> Find tons of kid-friendly restaurants along the way, here.

7. Prioritize Rest

Don’t push yourself or your kids too hard– instead, plan to prioritize rest and get a good night’s sleep. Book hotel rooms ahead of time so that you’re not scrambling to find a place to sleep. The GoWhee app has lots of hotels listed with amenities for kids, so it’s a great place to find places to stay.

Pro tip: Make the journey to your destination, exciting! One of the biggest challenges for kids on car trips is not knowing where they’re going to end up, so if you can tell them something like “We’re stopping at a hotel tonight and it has a pool you can play in,” they’ll feel more excited and less anxious about how the trip is going to end.

8. Have Your Car Looked At Ahead Of Time

Before you leave on your family road trip, get a car check-up so you don’t get stranded with a flat tire or a burned-out engine. If you’re going on a really long road trip, you should consider getting an oil change, too. Also, make sure that your car seats are up to current standards and that the seats are in good condition and haven’t had any recalls.

Pro Tip: Make sure that your child is in the right car seat for their size and age, and that your car seats are installed correctly. Your family’s safety is the most essential part of any vacation, and toddlers should always be in a car seat.

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9. Screen Time With a Twist

Lots of parents are concerned about too much screen time, but when you’re on a road trip with a toddler, limiting screen time can be a real challenge. Just remember, screen time can trigger more anxiety and restlessness in a toddler’s brain.

So, even though they’re sitting for long periods and the tablet games or movies could help keep them busy at first, screen time could backfire and make it more difficult to keep them calm and content in the long run.

Pro TIp: Families recommend using screen time as a reward or as a last recourse, on the later part of the trip. Use all the other activities and car games, nap, meal time, etc… first, and then plan for the movie time, it will be easier to keep the kids engaged.

10. Pack a First Aid Kit

Bumps, bruises, paper cuts, and other owies can really put a damper on car trips with toddlers (for parents too). Make sure that you pack a first aid kit with plenty of bandages, antibiotic ointment, and cleansing wipes.

You should also make sure that you have sunscreen to protect your kids’ skin and prevent sunburn, aloe vera gel in case sunburn happens anyways, bug spray, and anti-itch or calamine lotion.

Pro tip: If you’re traveling in the spring or summer, be sure to check your kids for ticks and bug bites after they’ve run around in the grass– you don’t want to bring anything unpleasant in the car with you.

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How To Find The Best Playground Near Me? – A Guide for Parents

Maud — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 09:59:53 +0000

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How To Find The Best Playground Near Me? – A Guide for Parents

December 1, 2022

Fall, Family Travel Tips, Outdoor Adventures, Products And Brands We Love, Road Trip, Spring, Summer

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If you have ever been on the hunt for a great playground for your kids, you know the struggle of finding the right one. It can be time-consuming and stressful if you don’t know where to look.

Fortunately, there are options to make the process easier and faster. From parent groups to travel apps, there are plenty of ways to find the best playgrounds near you.

What Makes A Great Playground

If you’ve ever been to a playground and looked around, you know how much fun they can be. After all, it’s a place where kids can run around, play with friends, and enjoy some fresh air. But what makes a great playground? One that offers unique features, up-to-date playground equipment, kid-friendly themes, lots of natural elements, and other features to make the playground even more enjoyable.

Unique Features

A great playground isn’t just about the slides, tire swings, zip lines, and other traditional playground equipment. It should also have unique features that kids can’t get enough of. Popular features like a splash pad or climbing structures can make a playground stand out from the rest. The splash pad is great for hot summer days; kids can cool off and have some water fun at the same time!

Newer Playground Equipment

To keep kids safe and engage we recommend looking for playgrounds with newer equipment. Like fully enclosed play areas or structures that offer different types of physical challenges. Being up to date with the latest playground trends will help ensure kids stay excited to come and play.

Themed Playgrounds

Themed playgrounds is a great way to create an exciting afternoon for kids. You can make it a day with a themed restaurants or show instead of going to a theme park. Instead of traditional playgrounds, look for ones with a grand pirate ship, castles, or even fairy-inspired themes. It can also help teach kids about different environments and cultures.

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Natural Elements

One of the best things about a great playground is the natural elements that it provides. Look for playgrounds that are grassy or have lots of trees and greenery. You can also try to find playgrounds with walking trails around to allow kids to explore a little further and initiate them to hiking. Breathing in the fresh air and exploring the natural elements can help them relax after all their running around.

Playgrounds for all ages

When searching for playgrounds to accommodate kids of different ages you will need to find ones with baby swings and lower structures, as well as things to entertain older children and teens. Head over to a playground near you with a basketball field or a soccer field to keep everyone happy.

Other Features

Aside from the playground features, always scout for other features such as a dog park, drinking water, picnic tables, and shade. Too much sun can be dangerous and the lack of drinking water can make kids very cranky, especially during the hot summer months. Having a dog park nearby will let pet owners enjoy the playground too, while a shady area can provide some peace and quiet for those that need it.

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Ways To Find The Best Playgrounds Near Me

Based on a survey amongst parents going to to playgrounds often, here is list of the best ways and their pros and cons on how to find the best playground near you.

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Asking for Recommendations on a Local Parent Group

Parents’ groups are usually full of great information and advice. If you have the time and patience to go through all the recommendations, it can be a great source of playgrounds that you can go to. However, if you’re in a rush, it may not be the best option.

Pros: They are often made up of other moms or dads who may have personal experience with nearby playgrounds and can provide detailed information on their recommendations.

Cons: You may find yourself having to wait for another parent to respond or having to search through multiple groups before you find what you’re looking for. It is also often lacking pictures of the play structures or the community park to get a sense of the space.

Use A travel app designed for parents, like the Gowhee app

Gowhee is one of the top-rated travel apps designed specifically for parents. With this app, you can easily find local parents’ favorite playgrounds, worldwide just with a few taps, so it is a great tool if you want to save time or need to quickly find some parks and playgrounds to entertain the kids on the go.

Pros: The Gowhee app allows you to search for playgrounds in other countries and has translation features to read local parents’ reviews in many languages. It offers photos and detailed information like what age is appropriate, whether or not the playground is enclosed, or if there are picnic areas and shaded spots. You can also use it to search for other family-friendly places to plan a whole-day trip or vacation too, like restaurants, museums, and kid-friendly hikes.

Cons: When using a travel app like Gowhee, you will need to pay a small subscription in order to access the best features. But it is well worth the cost in order to access quality and reliable information.

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Using Playground-Specific Apps

Playground apps are a good way to find playgrounds near you in a matter of minutes. They can also provide useful information about the playgrounds, like reviews and pictures, so you can make an informed decision. However, some apps are not as user-friendly and may lack information. Additionally, it can be challenging to plan a whole day with them since they only show playgrounds.

Pros: Playground apps can save you time and effort in finding playgrounds nearby. They list playgrounds in your area and allow you to quickly find the one that best meets your needs.

Cons: Unfortunately, these apps aren’t always user-friendly. Additionally, they don’t always provide the best information and aren’t great for planning a whole day trip since they often lack the detailed information you’ll want to make a comprehensive plan.

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Use Google Maps

Google Maps is another good option if you want to find playgrounds near you. It is easy to use and you can sometimes find reviews of the playground. However, not all playgrounds appear on the map and it can be difficult to find playgrounds in foreign countries.

Pros: It is a free tool and since it is mainstream, most areas are populated.

Cons: It is not designed for parents so there is a lack of information. You may not know about things that are important for your family, like safety, cleanliness, and the age range.

No matter which approach you choose to find the best playgrounds near you, make sure you’re taking the appropriate measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for your kids. Taking the time to do the research will allow you to relax once onsite.

Family Glamping With kids, Good or Bad Idea?

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25 NC Attractions for families and other cool things to do with kids in North Carolina.

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10 Kid Friendly Cabins in Gatlinburg TN

contentcucumber — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 10:14:53 +0000

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10 Kid Friendly Cabins in Gatlinburg TN

November 17, 2022

Budget Travel, Fall, Luxury Vacations, Off-the-beaten-paths, Outdoor Adventures, Road Trip, Spring, Summer, USA / Canada, Winter

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Gatlinburg is a very popular ski town nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. Families wanting to spend time outdoors, hike or enjoy the breathtaking views, will love this area.

Gowhee App has put together a list of 10 kid-friendly cabins in Gatlinburg, TN that you can book while planning your next vacation to the Great Smokies.

1. Cabins of the Smoky Mountains

Cabins of the Smoky Mountains is Gatlinburg’s largest cabin rental agency. No matter how large your family is, they have a cabin for you— their largest cabin sleeps 58 people! Many of their cabins include luxury amenities like theatre rooms that your family will love.

Basic Info: 1-20 bedrooms – Prices vary widely – All cabins have WiFi, TVs, and free tickets to local attractions

Nearby Attractions: The nearby Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is a great way to take in the mountain views.

2. Wolf Run

When you stay in the cozy cabin at Wolf Run, you’ll be super close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and within walking distance of the Gatlinburg trolley line.

Basic Info: 2 bedrooms – $156 – Fully stocked kitchen, washer and dryer, hot tub

Nearby Attractions: Spend a day exploring Gatlinburg’s best theme park, Anakeesta.

>>> Discover more kid-friendly hikes in Tennessee and globally, here.

3. Mountain Shadows Resort

The Mountain Shadows Resort combines the seclusion of a cabin with the amenities of a resort. Located 3.2 miles from downtown Gatlinburg,

Basic Info: 1-5 bedrooms – Average rate for a 2 bedroom is $140-$170- Pool access, hot tubs, playground

Nearby Attractions: Kids love the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, which is home to fan favorites like the Batmobile.

>>> Discover more family-friendly resorts like this globally with the accommodation feature on Gowhee App, here.

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4. Irish Blessings

Irish Blessings is close to both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. This cabin has a loft with twin bunk beds that kids just love.

Basic Info: 1 bedroom (and loft and sleeper sofa in living room) – ~$200 – Flatscreen TVs, bunk beds, hot tub

Nearby Attractions: Kids love visiting Dollywood and riding its roller coasters and other fun rides.

>>> Find tons of attractions to visit with kids near Pigeon Forge, here.

5. Elk Springs Resort

Elk Springs Resort has amazing cabins with pools, theater rooms, and even pet friendly options.

Basic Info: 1-9 bedrooms – Prices vary widely – Amenities may include game room, theater room, fire pit, and more

Nearby Attractions: Even in summer, you can enjoy winter fun at Pigeon Forge Snow, the world’s first indoor snow park

6. Le Conte Lodge

LeConte Lodge is actually located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is a family vacation experience like no other. The lodge’s rough-hewn cabins can sleep 4 and have no electricity— it’s a real escape into nature!

Basic Info: 1 bedroom with loft – Cabin rates are $162/$88.50 – Modern lavatory building, included dining, supplies brought in by llama (kids love seeing this!)

Nearby Attractions: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has wonderful trails and wildlife viewing.

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7. Bigfoot’s Hideaway at Bear Tootin Rustic Vacations

Bigfoot’s Hideaway is a secluded getaway that’s ten minutes from Gatlinburg. It offers amazing mountain views and is the perfect place to get away from it all.

Basic Info: 1 bedroom – ~$150 – Hot tub, arcade games, air hockey table

Nearby Attractions: For a thrilling and hilarious night out with the kids, visit Dolly Parton’s Stampede in Pigeon Forge. This 1.5-hour dinner show combines comedy, trick riding, and incredible horsemanship for a production that your family is sure to love.

>>> Discover tons of theme parks and other family-friendly activities, here.

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8. Smoky Mountain Nook

The charming Smoky Mountain Nook cabin offers modern convenience in a beautifully rustic setting.

Basic Info: 2 bedrooms – $275 – WiFi, cable TV, washer and dryer

Nearby Attractions: Gatlinburg Escape Games is a family-friendly escape room company that’s fun for families with kids as young as seven.

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9. Aunt Bug’s Cabin Rentals

Aunt Bug’s Cabin Rentals offers family-friendly vacation rentals in locations throughout the Gatlinburg area. Many of their popular family cabins have swimming pool access and fun family features like game rooms or home theatres.

Basic Info: 1-8 bedrooms – Prices vary widely – Amenities may include WiFi, swimming pools, game rooms, theatre rooms, and more

Nearby Attractions: Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies to see thousands of rare and intriguing sea creatures.

Join Gowhee and Enjoy

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10. Bear Trails at Eden Crest

Bear Trails is a newer cabin with all of the modern luxuries you could want. It’s perfect for a family with active kids, as it has a beautiful, safe yard to run around in.

Basic Info: 2 bedrooms – ~$350 – Pool table, arcade games, swimming pool access

Nearby Attractions: The Village Shops at Gatlinburg is a storybook village with lots of shops that kids love, including toy shops and candy shops.

Did you find some cool kid-friendly Cabin, for your next family vacation? Then pay it forward and share this list with friends and family to help them find their dream cabin too. Select one of the option below.

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25 NC Attractions for families and other cool things to do with kids in North Carolina.

25 NC Attractions for families and other cool things to do with kids in North Carolina.

What is the number one attraction in NC for kids?​

1. Mine For Gems in Asheville At This Unique Store

2. Get Face-to-Face with a Giraffe at This Conservation Zoo

3. Tour Caverns With Incredible Rock Formations

Plan your trip with a travel app designed for parents!

4. Ride In A Piece of Local History at this NC Amusement Park

5. Be a Race car Driver for a Day at this venue in Charlotte

6. Enter the Land of the OZ Exclusively at This Closed Theme Park.

7. Go Back In Time at the NC Transportation Museum

Best way to choose where to stay in North Carolina

Best Places For A Rainy Day With kids in North Carolina

8. Interactive Play For Infants, Toddlers, and Kids at this museum

9. Discover local arts at this cool studio in Raleigh, NC

10. Visit the Biltmore Estate with a family-friendly Twist.

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Free Attractions For Families Recommended by Local Parents.

11. Investigate Dueling Dinosaurs at this museum.

12. Walk Through A Gold Mine.

13. Take a Family-Friendly Art Museum Tour

Traveling to North Carolina on a Budget?

What are the best hikes for kids in NC?

14. Adventure Behind A Waterfall

15. Clingmans Dome Paved Trail

16. The Rose Walk loop at Lake Junaluska

17. Chimney Rock State Park

Visiting kids museums and indoor places?

Fun Outdoor Attractions For Families in North Carolina

18. Meet an American Black Bear

19. Take a Dip in this State Park Swimming Hole

20. Swing a Mile Above the Ground

21. Take a Day Trip to See Wild Horses

22. Slide in a natural river slide

Visiting the outer banks?

Noteworthy Stops For A Road Trip in North Carolina

23. Downtown Park in Cary NC

24. The World‘s largest frying pan

25. The Blowing Rock

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Plan your trip with a travel app designed for parents!

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Taking a road trip with a toddler through or to Pennsylvania?

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