Tips for Traveling with Kids in Washington, United States
1. Seattle Center
A family-friendly destination with the Space Needle, Pacific Science Center, and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Offers a variety of interactive exhibits that are engaging for kids.
- Interactive Exhibits: Provides hands-on activities that keep children engaged and learning
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible facilities, making it easy for all families to visit
- Food Options: Multiple dining choices suitable for different dietary needs and preferences
2. Children's Museum of Tacoma
An interactive museum focused on kids' learning and creativity, featuring exhibits like Imagine Studio and the Wonderful Wall.
- Interactive Exhibits: Provides unique experiences that stimulate children's imagination and encourage creativity
- Age-Appropriate Activities: Offers activities suitable for different age groups, making it enjoyable for all kids
- Educational Focus: Promotes learning through play and helps children develop essential skills
3. Pike Place Market
A historic public market with various vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and souvenirs. The original Starbucks store is also located here.
- Variety of Food Choices: Offers a range of food options that cater to different tastes and dietary restrictions
- Interactive Attractions: Includes attractions like the Gum Wall and the famous fish-throwing tradition at Pike Place Fish Market
- Kid-Friendly Vendors: Features several vendors offering toys, souvenirs, and other kid-friendly items
4. Woodland Park Zoo
Home to over 300 species, the zoo features exhibits like Tropical Rain Forest and African Savannah. Offers daily educational programs.
- Variety of Animals: Features a diverse range of animals from different regions, providing an immersive experience
- Educational Programs: Offers daily educational programs that teach children about animal habitats and conservation efforts
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Includes interactive exhibits, animal feedings, and keeper talks that are enjoyable for kids
5. Leavenworth
A Bavarian-themed town in the Cascade Mountains offering shopping, dining, and seasonal festivals. Kids can enjoy the Nutcracker Museum.
- Seasonal Festivals: Hosts various festivals throughout the year, creating a fun and lively atmosphere for families
- Unique Shopping Experience: Offers unique Bavarian-style shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and food items
- Kid-Friendly Dining Options: Provides kid-friendly dining options with a variety of German and American cuisines
6. The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
A contemporary museum that explores the impact of popular culture on everyday life. Features exhibits like Sci-Fi and Fantasy Hall of Fame.
- Interactive Exhibits: Provides interactive experiences that engage children in learning about popular culture
- Educational Focus: Promotes understanding of the cultural and historical significance of pop culture
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible facilities, making it easy for all families to visit
7. San Juan Island National Historical Park
A park that preserves the historic sites of English and American troops during the Pig War. Offers ranger-led programs.
- Historical Significance: Provides a unique look into an important historical event in U.S. history
- Ranger-Led Programs: Offers ranger-led programs that provide insight into the park's history and natural environment
- Outdoor Activities: Includes opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and bird watching
8. Port Discovery Children's Museum
An interactive museum designed specifically for children under age 8. Features exhibits like the Health Lab and Art Studio.
- Interactive Exhibits: Provides hands-on activities that keep young children engaged and learning
- Age-Appropriate Activities: Offers activities suitable for children under age 8, making it enjoyable for this specific age group
- Educational Focus: Promotes early learning and development through play-based experiences
9. Mount Rainier National Park
A national park featuring Mount Rainier, the highest peak in Washington. Offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led programs.
- Scenic Beauty: Provides breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and its surrounding landscapes
- Outdoor Activities: Includes opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing
- Ranger-Led Programs: Offers ranger-led programs that provide insight into the park's history, geology, and ecosystems
10. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
A wildlife park featuring native Northwestern animals like bears, wolves, and cougars. Offers tram tours and walk-through areas.
- Native Species: Focuses on showcasing native Northwestern species, providing a unique experience for families
- Tram Tours: Offers tram tours that allow visitors to view animals in their natural habitats
- Walk-Through Areas: Includes walk-through areas where visitors can get up close and personal with some animal exhibits
11. Whale Watching in Puget Sound
An opportunity to see orcas, gray whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat. Many tours depart from various locations around the Sound.
- Opportunity for Wildlife Viewing: Provides a chance to view some of the world's most magnificent marine creatures in their natural environment
- Variety of Tour Options: Offers tours departing from various locations around Puget Sound, making it accessible for families
- Educational Experience: Provides an educational experience about marine life and conservation efforts
12. Bainbridge Island Ferry Ride
A ferry ride connecting Seattle to Bainbridge Island. Offers scenic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
- Scenic Views: Provides breathtaking views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and surrounding islands
- Accessibility: Easy to access from Seattle, making it a convenient addition to any itinerary
- Affordable Transportation: Offers an affordable transportation option for families traveling with children
13. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
A zoo and aquarium featuring over 300 animal species, including sea otters, penguins, and gorillas. Offers interactive exhibits.
- Variety of Animals: Features a diverse range of animals, providing an immersive experience for families
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits that engage children in learning about animal habitats and conservation efforts
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Offers activities suitable for children, including petting zoos, pony rides, and keeper talks
14. Safeco Field Tour
A tour of Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners. Offers behind-the-scenes access to the stadium and team history.
- Behind-the-Scenes Access: Provides a unique opportunity to see areas of the stadium usually off-limits to the public
- Team History: Highlights the history and achievements of the Seattle Mariners, making it educational for sports fans
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible facilities, making it easy for all families to participate in the tour
15. Space Needle Observation Deck
A tower offering panoramic views of Seattle and the surrounding area. Features a rotating restaurant and souvenir shop.
- Panoramic Views: Provides breathtaking views of Seattle, the Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound
- Rotating Restaurant: Offers a dining experience with rotating views of the city for a unique perspective
- Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: Provides a family-friendly atmosphere, including interactive exhibits and activities for children