One of the trendiest cities in the world – at least for those that say down with The Man, are in a love affair with Patagonia gear, and turn up their noses at coffee that isn’t artisan – Seattle is a multi-layered cultural playground that can captivate everyone from easily distracted toddlers, to been-there-done-that adults.

Part of the city’s allure is the fact that it seems to exist in the future, as it’s always on the cutting-egde of, well, almost everything. This vibrant innovation emanates from many of the following Seattle destinations, meaning you’ll likely be going full bore the majority of your trip because there’s just so much to experience. You’ll thank yourself for saying yes to this urban adventure.

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Gas Works Park

On the shore of Lake Union is the 19-acre Gas Works Park that was morphed out of the former Seattle Gas Light Company plant that closed in 1956. The award-winning industrial-meets-nature wonderland that was crafted after the city acquired the site in 1962 is composed of a play barn, big grassy hill ideal for high speed rolling and kite flying, a sundial, and awesome views for picnic backdrops.

If you’re concerned about toxins, know that the landscape architects introduced oil-degrading enzymes to breakdown toxic contaminants in the soil. This site is now a compelling fusion of wholesome and eerie.

Seattle Bouldering Project

Photo by Seattle Bouldering Project

If you haven’t already heard, it rains a lot in Seattle. So much so that it’s prudent to always have a handful of indoor activities in your back pocket, or rain poncho pouch, when visiting this wet city with kids. Climbing at Seattle Bouldering Project should be one of those activities, as it features a kids and families climbing area and hosts numerous programs catered to little ones. After climbing on these trendy walls and foam-bottomed bouldering areas, go drink trendy coffee at the gym’s West Wall cafe. 

Dunthie Hill Mountain Bike Park

120-acres of rolling terrain, and a 2.5-acre central clearing surrounded by forest, make up this family-friendly mountain biking park that accommodates all levels of riders. And for the navigationally challenged (were looking at ourselves), take heart that it’s near-impossible to get lost on these trails, as many are loops that start and end in that aforementioned clearing, or are straight shots from and to local parks or parking lots.

The ideal paths for beginners are the Access Trail, which leads from a parking lot to the central clearing, the short but sweet Honey Badger trail, and the one-mile Bootcamp loop. Intermediate mountain bikers will enjoy the Deuces Wild and Step It Up Trails. If you want to make this an all-day endeavor, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy between wheeled excursions.

A favorite spot to rent mountain bikes is Progression Cycle, as it’s within riding distance of Dunthie Hill.

Seattle by Foot Kids’ Tour

Gum wall at Pike Place Market

A two-hour walking tour created by two Seattle moms, Seattle by Foot Kids’ Tour stops at kid-favorite spots in Pike Place Market, explores architecture that’s interesting to littles, journeys through the Seattle Art Museum and dives into a special location that houses over a million books. All tour stops are 2-3 blocks from one another, but it’s still wise to bring a stroller if you have sloth-walkers, or really-little-ones.

This tour is a great way to get insight into Seattle highlights and discover where you want to spend more time. And if your child is craving a fellow child to play with, this could be an excellent way to meet other families seeking playmates.

Seattle Aquarium 

Opened in 1977 on Seattle’s Elliott Bay waterfront, this treasured non-profit aquarium features hands-on marine experiences, conservation education, and a window into the lives of the world’s most captivating critters, like otters, jellyfish, tufted puffins, dogfish, eels and giant clams.

A few highlights include the jaw-dropping Underwater Dome, Family Activity Center that facilitates a journey into the challenges of orcas, an otherworldly octopus feeding, and the Marine Mammals area where you can hear daily talks and witness feedings. 

If you’re at the Seattle Aquarium on the weekend, check out the Diver Show through the window on Washington Water. Plan to spend around two hours here. When you’re done, head to…

The Seattle Great Wheel

Score epic views of Mount Olympus and Seattle’s waterfront district in a gondola attached to this 175-foot Ferris wheel. The ride includes three full revolutions and allows those with a fear of heights to be distracted by the sights and the thrilled giggles the kids will inevitably erupt into.

If you want to go all out, get VIP tickets that let you cut the line (the dream of many a child), and ride in style in a gussied-up gondola that features leather bucket seats, a stereo system and (drum roll please) a glass floor. You’ll also get VIP t-shirts and wonderfully cheesy photo-booth-prints.

For those there on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday evening, hang around for the light show, which consists of 500,000 LED lights on the Ferris wheel doing crazy stuff.

Woodland Park Zoo

1,100 animals from 300 species live at this 92-acre zoo that is divided into bioclimactic zones, with natural habitats ranging from humid tropical rain forests to coastal deserts. The most popular residents at this wildlife sanctuary include rhinos, hippos, an arctic fox named Hudson (!), a snow leopard, wallabies, brown bears, and our favorites, the red panda and lemurs. Other fave stops in this zoo include the Historic Carousel and the fabulously ethereal butterfly garden that’s open seasonally.  

As zoos have been getting lots of flack regarding animal treatment (and rightly so), zoos like Woodland Park are putting in serious effort to not only adhere to strict protocol regarding animal treatment and habitats, but are also putting in the work to support wildlife conservation worldwide. 

Seattle Children’s Museum 

Photo by Seattle Children’s Museum

A fun place for kids up to 8-years-old, the 18,000-square feet that make up the Seattle Children’s Museum are filled with hands-on exhibits, educational programs and activities, and staff who eagerly engage with visitors. Open-ended learning is a large part of the museum’s philosophy, inspiring a child’s creativity and curiosity to shine during their visit.

Popular exhibits include the Bijou Theater where kids can get a taste of theater life, from a backstage dressing room to the bright lights of a decorated stage, the aptly-named Construction Zone, the art-centric Imagination Studio, and The Market where kids can fill their cart with goods and pay with play money. While older kids might get bored, little kids will be blissed-out by this interactive wonderland. 

Space Needle 

The most iconic structure in Seattle, the Space Needle was constructed for the 1962 World’s Fair and offers the best views of the city, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascades and Olympic mountain ranges. If you’re up for a mild thrill, step out on The Loupe, the needle’s revolving glass floor that’s perched 500-feet above the city.

After you’ve Louped and posed, head to Seattle Fudge or The Confectional for dessert. Both sweeteries are located in the Seattle Center.

Pacific Science Center

Photo by Pacific Science Center

With a mission to ignite curiosity, discovery, experimentation and critical thinking, the Pacific Science Center offers a dynamic platter of exhibits and experiences that easily fill up a full day in Seattle.

Prime zones for super youngsters include the Gravity Well, the dinosaur exhibit (although it scares some) and the Just for Tots exhibit (obvi.) Older kids will enjoy the outdoor area that features a water-cannon they can use to hit various targets, a water wheel to walk in, and a massive granite ball they can try spinning. There’s also a Tinker Tank maker-space where they can craft electrical circuits, launch rockets and do other science-y stuff. 

And let’s not forget the Virtual Reality experiences, allowing adults and kids 5 and older to engage in a lunar adventure, save the universe from evil with some sweet dance moves, explore Van Gogh’s Starry Night painting (Hudson’s favorite), and walk with penguins.  

Areas that are a hit for all ages include the Tropical Butterfly House (wear red or yellow if you want a better chance of butterflies landing on you), the Salt Water Tide Pool, and the Planetarium where you can enjoy the 15-minute show developed for preschoolers, or the standard 30-40 minute show. Both have an in-person presenter who shares fascinating stories about the cosmos as the shifting images on the dome’s screen make you feel like you’re floating through said cosmos. 

Another unique experience at the Pacific Science Center are the laser shows, which are housed in the Laser Dome and composed of mind-bending light features set to the tunes of greats like the Beatles, Queen, Gaga and more. And finally, don’t miss a 3D movie in their state-of-the-art IMAX theater.

Tip: If you’re coming with a large group, purchase the annual family pass, as it will likely save you money on entry, provide unlimited tickets to the Laser Shows, and offer other perks.

Another Tip: If you’re in-between checking into a hotel, or getting on an airplane or cruise ship, they’ll usually allow you to store your luggage in the Guest Services office. Lockers are also available for smaller goods.

The post Where to Entertain Kids in Seattle, Washington appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Transformed from swamp land in the 1700s, Boston’s culturally-rich Kenmore Square is now a lively hub thrumming with the energy of Boston University students, offering easy access to Commonwealth Avenue Mall that exudes mega-Boston vibes (especially in Fall when the leaves blaze with color), and featuring a short walk to the iconic Fenway Park and other historic hotspots.

While Boston offers plenty for the entire family to enjoy, Kenmore Square feels especially suited for couples getting away on a babymoon, honeymoon, or “why not” vacation without the kids. This adult time allows space to savor strolls by vine-kissed Georgia and Federal style buildings, an exploration of the eclectic plots in Fenway Victory Gardens, people watching on a park bench with a fresh pastry and cappuccino, or a long gourmet meal at one of the area’s many acclaimed eateries.

To ensure you get the most out of this legendary locale, without feeling overwhelmed with activity to-dos, we’ve pulled together a highly-curated list of where to sleep, eat + explore in and around Kenmore Square.

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When to go: Take in this world-class city in all its splendor by visiting in October when the fire-like colors and crisp Fall are are present… but the layers of snow have yet to arrive.

Airline Tip: If you’ll be flying for over five hours, and really want to treat yourself, consider splurging on a luxury pod in JetBlue’s Mint Cabin. This revamped airline has numerous flights to Boston from other major airports, and has created a first-class experience unsurpassed by any other airline we’ve first-classed it on.

Sleep

While there are numerous stellar hotels and vacation rentals around Kenmore Square, we only listed one, as this spot is a must if you’re splurging on a full-on Boston immersion.

Hotel Commonwealth

Photo by Hotel Commonwealth

From its grand lobby dripping in refined elegance, to the large paintings depicting classic events like the Boston Marathon, seats from Fenway Park, and other Boston Red Sox memorabilia, this famous hotel is all-things-Boston wrapped up in one massive, architecturally stunning structure. While many accommodations feel removed from the spirit of the city, as most hotel rooms are pretty generic, the rooms and suites at Hotel Commonwealth allow you to perch in your window seat, or sip champagne on your balcony, as you look down on the constant happenings of Commonwealth Avenue, or gaze on Fenway Park, envisioning the innumerable landmark moments that were birthed on that field.

Beyond the sights, the plush furniture and décor in the rooms are supremely chic, making it easy to envision Boston greats like John and Abigail Adams sitting around making important power-couple decisions in the room. Essentially, you constantly feel that you’re getting the most out of your Boston sojourn when you’re staying in this storied establishment.

Eat

As the culinary scene in Boston is world-renowned, and highly competitive, you can be sure any eatery that has lived to celebrate numerous birthdays has something special going. Luckily, many such restaurants reside in Kenmore Square, offering travelers easy access to gourmet nosh.

Eastern Standard

Photo by Eastern Standard

As soon as you walk through the heavy doors of this brasserie-style restaurant, you’re hit with a wave of old world charm that makes you feel that by simply existing in the restaurant you now possess the poise of the elite from a glamorous bygone era. However, despite the dignified environment, the staff does not put on airs, offering each patron attentive and courteous service. This attentiveness is especially handy as you work to decipher the elaborate cocktail menu, which reads like an ode to the alchemy of mixology.

While you can’t go wrong with any of the drinkable art at Eastern Standard, the Cardini Highball is especially mind blowing with its mix of tequila arette blanco, cocchi rosa, blackberry, lime, soda. And because this restaurant is attached to Hotel Commonwealth, you don’t have to worry about navigating back to your hotel if you go a little wild with cocktail sampling.

And then there’s the food. While menu items might at first seem fairly common, when you take a closer look you discover that the master chefs have come up with creative and delectable twists on favorite dishes. A few favorites include the Crab Imperial, Atlantic Monkfish, Cheesesteak, Sesame Tuna Salad, Mac n’ Cheese, and of course, the bread pudding.

Bruegger’s Bagels

Photo by Bruegger’s Bagels

To prep for a full day of cultural wandering, walk across the street from Hotel Commonwealth to this tried-and-true café where you can savor a butter or cream cheese-covered fresh bagel loaded with breakfast favorites like smoked salmon, eggs, bacon, chorizo, and more, then wash it down with a strong cup of coffee. Take your goods to the nearby park for a morning picnic, or snag a spot by the window and relish the fact that you’re not one of the many students rushing to class.

Island Creek Oyster Bar

Photo by Island Creek Oyster Bar

Another spot to score oh-my-wow cocktails, this elegant, yet unpretentious, establishment allows you to try the best of the seafood dishes New England is known for, such as lobster rolls, crab cakes, clam chowder, and fish n’ chips. All catch is incredibly fresh, and adorned with sumptuous favorites like premium butter, herbs, vegetables and other goodies, but the oysters are really where it’s at. The center of Island Creek Oyster Bar, an icy-world behind the glass of this extensive bar, features a smorgasbord that would make any oyster lover swoon. And the sensual, candlelit environment of this establishment makes it a utopia for romantic dinners.

Explore

Because Boston was the birthplace of many of the most significant moments in American history, it’s overflowing with amazing cultural attractions. To prevent your itinerary from exploding, like ours did the first time we said yes to Boston, we’ve narrowed down the list below to must-see landmarks within walking distance of Kenmore Square. If your trip will be longer than two or three days, you can hop in a rideshare and venture out into the wide world of Bostonian museums, monuments, and more.

Museum of Fine Arts Boston

Photo by Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

While we only had two hours to explore this palace of creation, founded in 1876, we wish we would have had two days. As it’s home to almost 450,000 works of art from almost every corner of the world, and seemingly endless eras, the Museum of Fine Arts Boston is a visual feast for those that appreciate paintings by masters like Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh, jewelry from ancient Egypt, Buddhist sculptures, thought-provoking pieces by contemporary artists and so much more you could spend years visiting this museum and see something new on each trip. In addition to the permanent collections, the museum is almost constantly introducing traveling exhibits.

Tips

* If you’ll be visiting on the weekend, skip the line by purchasing tickets here.

* To fully immerse yourself in the history of the museum’s treasures, utilize a mobile MFA Guide, or hop on one of the free one-hour guided tours.

* If you’ll have limited time, make a plan of attack before setting forth, making sure you don’t run out of time to see the exhibits you’re most keen on.

Fenway Victory Gardens

Almost the backyard of Hotel Commonwealth, the 7.5-acres that make up Fenway Victory Gardens house over 500 vibrant plots tended by Boston community members dedicated to infusing city life with the back-to-nature goodness of nurturing soil, covering plants when the freezes settle in, and pruning their plant babies. Beyond the vegetables, flowers and other foliage in the gardens are the eclectic collections of gnomes, mosaics, plastic figurines and other peculiar objects that make the plots double as mini-curio-museums.

While we didn’t see many people during our garden stroll, there were gaggles of geese that followed, and sometimes gently herded, us as we explored. One woman we spoke to, who has been gardening at Fenway Victory Gardens for over 50 years (!), said there’s a goose (who she’s named Zaly) that has learned her schedule and is waiting for her at the gate of her plot every morning.

Mary Baker Eddy Library and Mother Church

Photo of the Mapparium by The Mary Baker Eddy Library

Female empowerment abounds at this library and church that are the result of a woman who blew past bull sh*t convention in the name of pursuing her dream and bettering the world. The library chronicles the story of this wonder woman of yore, Mary Baker Eddy, who founded the Church of Christ, Scientist, during a time when women weren’t even allowed to vote. This story is revealed with letters, videos and other in-depth articles that will leave you awed. And then there’s the stunning church, adjacent to the museum, that’s the physical manifestation of what a purposeful vision and dogged passion can produce.

An additional draw of the library is the one-of-a-kind Mapparium, a three-story, stained-glass globe you can walk inside, immersing you in a surreal and thought-provoking experience.

Fenway Park Tour

Even if you’re not a baseball fan, touring this famed stadium, which has been home to the Boston Red Sox since 1912 and backdrop to famous scenes in movies like Field of Dreams, Good Will Hunting and Fever Pitch, is a bucket-list-worthy stop. The one-hour tour fills you in on all the greatest historic moments that have taken place within the stadium’s hallowed walls, and gives you a chance to sit on the Green Monster, the legendary wall that stands over 37-feet high and overlooks leftfield.

Lansdowne Street

The spot to go to join in on Boston nightlife, Lansdowne Street is filled with bars and clubs providing laid back environments to eat, drink, sing, dance and get silly. Favorite spots include Bill’s Bar, a five decade old haunt, Cask’n Flagon, the place for understanding how fiercely Bostonians love their Red Sox, House of Blues, The Landsdownes, a classic Irish Pub, and Jillian’s and Lucky Strike Lanes, a three story, 70,000-square-foot paradise for big kids wanting to revel in bowling, pool, arcade games, drinks and comfort food with contemporary twists.

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