Search Results for: Kitsap Live Steamers

Kitsap Live Steamers: A Unique and Frugal Outing for Train Lovers-Runs This Weekend!

June 21, 2012 by Maegen Blue Leave a Comment

Update: Regular, twice monthly rides have started!

This has to be one of the Northwest’s most unique frugal family outings.

Kitsap Live Steamers is a group of train lovers who operate a miniature version of a steam locomotive. Twice a month through October they give free rides to the public at their location in the South Kitsap Regional Park in Port Orchard. As you can see, you sit right on top, and away you go!

The track does a pleasant loop through the forest at a gentle speed. It’s not a super long ride-maybe 15 minutes-but it’s loads of fun, especially if you have a train lover in your family.

On our visit, there were two trains running, so even though there was a line of folks we only waited about 10 minutes to board.

After your ride, there is a nice, new playground for the kids to explore, or bring along a picnic.

If you want to make a daytrip out of it, you might consider heading down to Bremerton to explore the excellent (and free) Naval Undersea Museum and the Bug Museum.

I know many of you have done the Kitsap Live Steamers (it’s one of those outings I get emails about), so feel free to chime in with your tips!

Do note that the Kitsap Live Steamers is an all volunteer group, dependent on donations, so it’s nice to leave one (ditto for the museums above). The Steamers also have a table with Thomas toys and other train gear for sale, so brace yourself for that.

Kitsap Live Steamers: A Unique and Frugal Outing for Train Lovers

September 6, 2011 by Maegen Blue Leave a Comment

This has to be one of the Northwest’s most unique frugal family outings.

The track does a pleasant loop through the forest at a gentle speed. It’s not a super long ride-maybe 15 minutes-but it’s loads of fun, especially if you have a train lover in your family.

On our visit, there were two trains running, so even though there was a line of folks we only waited about 10 minutes to board.

After your ride, there is a nice, new playground for the kids to explore, or bring along a picnic.

If you want to make a daytrip out of it, you might consider heading down to Bremerton to explore the excellent (and free) Naval Undersea Museum and the Bug Museum.

I know many of you have done the Kitsap Live Steamers (it’s one of those outings I get emails about), so feel free to chime in with your tips!

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things To Do September 8th, 9th, and 10th!

September 8, 2017 by Maegen Blue Leave a Comment

We’re loving the cleaner air over here, and we’re loving this weekend’s list! It’s full of great fun (lots of it FREE) to celebrate the end of summer and the start of fall! If you’ve got a truck lover, you’ll particularly want to consider the Touch a Truck event at Sprinker. All that and more just a scroll away……

There are more than 50 family events this weekend (not kidding!) so if you’re reading this from the home page, you’ll need to do one more click. I promise it’s worth it!

[Read more…]

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things To Do April 7th, 8th, and 9th!

April 7, 2017 by Maegen Blue Leave a Comment

Looking for something fun and free to do with the kids this weekend? We’ve got you covered with fun for kids in Tacoma, Kent, Olympia, Gig Harbor, and all over the South Sound! It’s Daffodil Parade time, plus there are tons of egg hunts and lots of fun library events if you’d rather stay dry! Oh, and most of this list? Free or very cheap!

The complete list by day and area is ahead! Do use the links we’ve provided to double check details before you head out. These busy pre-holiday weekends are intense around here!

Read on for the whole list! [Read more…]

50 FREE or Almost FREE Things to Do in the South Sound This Summer

June 28, 2016 by Keri Welch 4 Comments

Updated for 2018

When you’ve got all summer long to keep the kiddos having fun, things can get pricy. We’re here to help! Try out all kinds of these things for FREE or nearly FREE all summer long. Put them on your summer bucket list, write them on your calendar, or gather friends to do something fun!

PS If you like this post, we think you’ll LOVE the weekend lists we put up on the home page every Friday! Or get it right to your inbox on Thursday as our weekly newsletter!

Get Wet!

1. We’ve got a huge list of places to cool off in the summer sun. Try out one of many South Sound spraygrounds, fountains, splash pads or pools from Auburn to Olympia!

All the spray grounds, fountains, and splash pads are FREE. The pools have modest fees.

2. If something a little more outdoorsy is more your speed, try out an area lake that’s great for swimming! We’ve got a huge list of Great Lakes for Swimming in the South Sound.

A couple spots charge for parking but most are totally free.

Great lakes for swimming in the South Sound

Lake Tapps North, photo courtesy Pierce County

3. Explore one of the Best Beaches for Kids in the South Puget Sound. One of our family favs is Dash Point City Park. There is fishing pier, a little playground, sandy beach that turns rocky, and beautiful sunsets that you can only get in the PNW. The only charge for beach exploration is if you go to a state park requiring a Discover WA Pass, or there are a few city parks where you may need to pay to park.

4. Kiddos can stay busy for a very long time by playing in the sand. Choose from one of the Best South Sound Beaches with Sand, or make a day of it and drive to the ocean!

5. Explore the beach at low tide and find all kinds of critters and sea life. Seattle Aquarium beach naturalists will be at various South Sound beaches throughout the summer to help us all learn more about the amazing marine life that surrounds Puget Sound and what we can do to make sure it’s around for generations to come. The link has info. on similar programs from Harbor WildWatch, Metro Parks Tacoma, and the South Sound Estuary Association. There is one near you no matter where you live around here! All of these programs are FREE. You will need a Discover WA pass if you go to a state park.

6. Go fishing! Keep summer days easy with fishing at a local pier or river. You can even stop by Jim’s U-Fish in Spanaway if you want more of a sure thing! There are also animals to feed and pet here. This one can add up a bit, but readers have said it’s loads of fun and worth a one day splurge.

7. Try one of Five Fun Swimming Pools for South Sound Kids. One of our favs is Kandle Pool in Tacoma, which has the first wave pool in Pierce County. There are fees here, but they’re a great deal compared to a water park or a trip that requires plane tickets! Oh, and kids 4 and under are FREE.

8. If you rather stay out of the sun and get wet indoors, we’ve got a great list of Cool Indoor Pools in the South Sound just for kids! Entrance to the Covington Pool for a family is only $13.50 and kiddos under age 4 are FREE.

Cool indoor pools for kids tacoma, covington

The Octopus at the Covington Pool

9. Splash and explore at the Mashell River in Eatonville. It’s great for kiddos who are a little bigger. And, my kids never seem to tire of skipping rocks.

10. Have you ever played at Wildwood Park in Puyallup? It has a teensy little crick just right for preschool splashing and mucking around. There is also great shade and paved and unpaved trails to explore. It’s totally FREE.

11. The Mast Center at Redondo is such a treasure! It’s a small aquarium with touch tanks, and it’s totally FREE to visit. 10-2 every Saturday, and Thursday evenings from 4-7.

12.Get in on the painted rock craze and you’ll be creating and hunting for painted rocks at area parks in no time. So much fun!

Opt Outside

13. Try a new to you playground. Here’s our list of Best South Sound Playgrounds.

14. What little transportation lover doesn’t want to Touch a Truck?! Explore some of the biggest trucks around that service your community. Get all the details on upcoming events in our South Sound Touch a Truck Roundup. Don’t miss the new one coming to Fife in early August! FREE or low cost events.

15. One of our favorite things to do in the South Sound is explore a nature trail. Here’s our list of Ten South Sound Nature Walks Perfect for Young Hikers. Hylebos Wetlands in Federal Way is a great first start! FREE except for locations requiring passes.

16. If you’re ready to explore an actual hike, you can’t go wrong with Mt. Rainier. We’ve wrangled some of the best hikes near Mt. Rainier for kiddos!

If you actually go in the park, you will have to pay for a pass unless you go on a FREE day! For hikes outside the park the pass you’ll need varies, so do check on that. Got someone who just finished 4th grade? You can go to national parks for FREE through August!

Free activities with kids in the South Sound

Skookum Falls

17. Are your littles not yet ready for hiking or nature trails? Try one of the beautiful South Sound Stroller Friendly Trails. If you’ve got one with a bike and one in the stroller, try out the Puyallup Foothills Trail, which is wide enough for all of you!

18. Explore one of our many state parks or a national park for FREE on one of the Fee Free Days.

Fee Free Days Washington state parks and national parks

The nature trail at Dash Point State Park

19. Have you tried geocaching yet? There are some great caches in Pt Defiance, with some easily discovered near the Rose Garden area. Or, take a hike where you can find some that are slightly more difficult.

20. Now that it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a visit to the Puyallup Fish Hatchery should be on your summer agenda! Explore the Educational Center if it’s open and take a walk around the hatchery to see the fish. You can even hike into Clark’s Creek Park if you’re up for more adventure.

Free Your Mind

21. Sign up for a Library Summer Reading Program, where your kiddos can avoid the summer slide and win cool prizes, too! When you go in to sign up be sure to get a list of all the awesome programs being offered for FREE and mark some on your calendar so you don’t forget!

22. Hit up a museum for free! There are FREE days during each month at area Tacoma and Seattle museums. Or, go on your own schedule by checking out a pass from your library.

23. Catch an excellent planetarium show at Pierce College that’s just for kids! Shows are just 6.00 for ages 3-12 and FREE for everyone else. If you’ve never been, definitely make sure it’s on your bucket list this summer.

24. For only $3/parking you can explore the beautiful Nisqually Wildlife Refuge near Olympia. Kids will have extra fun becoming Junior Wildlife Refuge Managers while you’re here.

25. Do your kiddos enjoy getting dirty in the garden? How about signing them up for FREE gardening classes with the Pierce County Master Gardeners in Puyallup. These programs are FREE and include a short story time, lesson and activities. Programs are designed for children ages 3-11.

Get the Wiggles Out

26. Need a place for your kids to play a game that won’t make a mess in your house? Sign them up for Kids Bowl FREE all summer long!

27. Tiffany’s Skate Inn in Puyallup doesn’t offer free skating, but they do have lots of fun deals and a new mini golf place next door! Feel free to tell us about your favorite roller rinks, too!

Beat the Heat Indoors

28. No AC at home? Getting cranky with the stickiness of summer? Hit up one of the many South Sound Mall Play Areas. Meet up with friends and make it extra fun! Unless you do some shopping, it’s always Free to play!

29. You can also opt for an Indoor Playground. We suggest investing in the unlimited play pass from WiggleWorks. Yes, it will cost you upfront, but if you go enough you can get each visit down to just a couple of bucks (or less). Challenge accepted!

30. Got tiny history buffs? Try the pay-as-you-can Job Carr Cabin Museum. They have special summer story times and take home crafts on Fridays.

31. Catch a cheap movie! Regal Summer Movie Express is offering $1 movies on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings this summer.

Catch a Show

32. There are all kinds of FREE Summer Concerts and Shows for Kids in the South Sound all summer long!

Fun with Recess Monkey

33. Want something a little more magical? Enjoy the sights and thrills of magician Jeff Evans! He brings the magic of science alive to kids in a way that’s engaging, entertaining and FUN! Check out the schedule of FREE shows all summer long featuring Jeff!

34. Nothing says summer like FREE outdoor movies under the stars! We’ve got a HUGE list of Outdoor Summer Movies in the South Sound just for you and your kiddos!

Visit a Fair or Festival

35. There is an awesome variety of festivals around the South Sound all summer long. You could go to a different one each weekend.

36.The Pierce County Fair is coming up the 9th-12th. While not free, you can have a very reasonably priced time at this fair that has a more rural, small town feel than the, “Big One.”

37. Hit the Kid Kraze with Pierce County Parks and Rec

Our 2nd annual Kidz Kraze Children’s Festival is a FREE event for kids ages 3-12 and their families. The festival will feature a bounce house and obstacle course, lego workshop by Bricks 4 Kidz Tacoma, arts & crafts by Art Studio27, field games and more! Brew Dog will be on-site serving hot dogs and festival fare!

38. Celebrate your small town at one of these great events:

Kent Cornucopia Days July 13-15. South King county’s largest family festival features a street fair, parade, entertainment, and more.
Pacific Days – Friday-Sunday, July 13-15. 4-9PM Friday; 11-9 Saturday; 11-4 Sunday Music, parade, food trucks, vendors, and more family fun.
SummerFest in Lakewood – Saturday, July 14, 11:00am-11:00pm. FREE all day festival with activities, food, entertainment, car show, Kids’ Zone and more! Free outdoor movie in the evening, too!
Capital Lakefair, Lacey – Wednesday-Sunday, July 11-15. Enjoy a parade, fireworks, and rides.Covington Days – Saturday and Sunday, July 21 and 22nd. This official SeaFair event includes a parade, carnival, and kids’ activities.Gig Harbor Summer Arts Festival – July 21 and 22nd Saturday, times TBA. Art on display on the waterfront. In the past there have also been children’s activities, food, and vendors.Renton River Days – Friday-Sunday, July 27-29. An annual multi-day family festival featuring events and activities for kids, arts and crafts, reception, food, and live entertainment.Enumclaw Street Fair – Friday/Saturday, July 27,28 10:00am-7:00pm. This street fair includes a family fun zone with rides and games, live music, craft vendors, family activities, basketball tournament, farmer’s market, and more!

39. The Kite Festival at Chambers Creek (Saturday, August 4th 10:00am-3:00pm) is fun for the whole family! Head down to the Central Meadow for an amazing day of kite demonstrations, family kite flying, face painting, bounce houses, and more! The first 250 kids will have an opportunity to make their own kites!

Take a Day Trip

40. Hop in the car for a day trip! There is so much variety all within 3 hours driving distance of Tacoma, including Leavenworth, Port Townsend, and Snoqualmie Falls!

41. Head to Seattle for the day! The kids will get a kick out of the simple pleasures such as exploring Pike Place Market, the Gum Wall, and the Olympic Sculpture Park. Also worth a visit is the Ballard Locks, where kids will be mesmerized by boats passing through the locks or viewing the salmon in the fish ladder.

Our friend Angela at The Coupon Project also has a big list of frugal outings in Seattle.

Good Eats! Chow down at a free lunch site; eat ALL the ice cream you can, or send off summer at an August festival or street fair.

42. Kids can eat FREE lunches all summer long at locations all across the Puget Sound. Find the location nearest you at USDA Summer Food Rocks site. These are usually offered at local parks and schools and sometimes have free fun and games, too.

43. Community festivals and street fairs also abound in August.

Frederickson Community Festival – Saturday, August 11, 9:00am-3:00pm. The annual Freddie Fest features a car show, chili cook-off, and local vendors.

AuburnFest, Auburn Saturday, August 11, 11:00am-8:00pm

Held at Les Gove park, there will be live entertainment, a car show, literary fair plus lots of free kid’s activities.

Bonney Lake Days – August 18 This festival is VERY family friendly with Kids Zone, chalk art competition, parade, and more!

Milton Days– August 18 Events and activities TBA.

44. While this isn’t free, getting ice cream is a cheap outing that your kiddos will LOVE. Hit up one of our Reader’s Favorite Ice Cream Spots in the South Sound! Don’t miss Ice Cream Social if you’re near Tacoma!

45. Summer fun should always include some berry picking! Be sure to put this one on the calendar because it always seems to sneak up on us with everything else going on all summer. For where to get the best berries, head to our South Sound Berry Picking Guide.

South Sound Pride

46. If you haven’t been to Cabela’s in Lacey or Bass Pro Shop in Tacoma, summer is the perfect opportunity. How can you resist a free excursion with a description like this: the 185,000-square-foot retail showroom is an educational and entertainment attraction, featuring a decor of museum-quality animal displays, huge aquariums and trophy animals interacting in realistic re-creations of their natural habitats. Bass Pro Shop boasts a 12,000-gallon freshwater aquarium, 3-D diorama of a running waterfall with mountain lion, big horn sheep, and mountain goats against a backdrop mural of Mount Rainier, not to mention the unique bowling alley!

47. Got a kid who is into military history? Visit the McChord Air Museum for FREE, Wednesday-Friday, 12:00pm-4:00pm, and as of April 2016 open to the public. There are specific document requirements for gaining access to the base, so be sure to check those out before promising your kiddos this one!

48. Kitsap Live Steamers invites you to Port Orchard on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month through October to ride a miniature steam train for FREE (donations are welcome).

49. Have you been to the new Point Ruston? The Playground on the Waterwalk is made to look like a large ferry, and kiddos can pretend they are charting their own course across the Sound. You’ll also want to check out the Grand Plaza Sprayground, open from noon-10pm, daily. This is more of a splashpad for littles, but it’s free and lots of fun! Note there is now a charge to park in the garage at Point Ruston.

50. Visit Daddy or Mommy at work for lunch! This can be a fun way for the kids to see what Daddy or Mommy does, and also break up the long workday! Find a nearby park to make it a fuller trip, and explore the area. There may even be other family members who would enjoy a visit like this from your kiddos!

If all else fails, a good old fashioned slip n slide from Target is always fun!

Need still More ideas?

You can find even more fun in our complete summer guide! We’ll also have our awesome weekend round ups every Friday all summer long plus more playground reviews, hike reports, and outing ideas the rest of the week! We’d love to see you every day!

PS If you liked this post, we think you’ll Love Our Emails

South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Halloween Fun and Things to Do for Kids and Families October 25th-27th!

October 25, 2013 by Maegen Blue 1 Comment

The South Sound is full of fun things to do with your family this weekend!

For Seattle or Portland area fun you’ll want to check out the fantastic list over at ThriftyNWmom compiled by the newest member of their frugal finding team, Annaliese of Grays Harbor Deals!

Saturday

All Over

Get your pumpkin on! Here’s my list of South Sound pumpkin patches and corn mazes!

Kids’ Club at Michael’s Stores 2.00 per child for a 30 minute session. Sessions begin on the half hour starting at 10AM treat bag making, plus candy and a parade today-costumes invited!

Free Monster 500 Trading Card at Toys R Us Stores I have no idea what these are, but if your kids do, here you go!

Many Farmer’s Markets are still open for just a few more weeks! Find one here Get your fresh on while you can!

South King County

StoryBook Theater’s production of Chicken Little at Renton’s Carco Theater

Cedar River Salmon Migration Every weekend in October spot salmon returning with the help of volunteer naturalists Various Renton area sites More on salmon watching coming in a post next week!

Go Away Big Green Monster Halloween Story Time at Southcenter Barnes and Noble 11AM stories, costume parade, and more fun! Perfect for kids 3-7 Also at Federal Way

Halloween Harvest Festival in Auburn Washington Elementary 2-5 Games; face painting and more. Trick or treating at downtown merchants. Wear your costume and bring a food donation-toy weapons checked at the door! Louie Foxx magic show (tickets 8.oo) at the Auburn Avenue theater at 2PM same day

Pumpkin Walk in the Dark in Auburn 4-8PM illuminated pumpkin walk, hay bale maze, and more! 5.00 person or 10.00 family carved pumpkins needed for the walk! Family and pet friendly

Touch tanks at HCC Mast at Redondo Free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2 Kids can touch a variety of sea critters

Trick or treats funfest in Federal Way (link opens a pdf) smores, games, carnival, and more 6.00 pre registered; two times depending on child’s

East Pierce County-Bonney Lake, Puyallup, Graham, Sumner

Sorella Women’s Consignment event continues in Puyallup

Sunset Battle of the Bands in Sumner marching band contest; drumline performance

Lego my Library at the Puyallup Public Library 11AM Stories followed by Lego building fun drop-in for kids 4-8

“Scary stories,” at the Tillicum Library Curl up by a virtual campfire for not-too-scary stories from the fireside league. There will also be a craft and treat following. Free, all ages drop in event. 2PM

Marvelous masks at the Graham Library at 2PM mask making event for ages 6 and up registration is required

You can make cider at Terry’s Berries on weekends, but sadly you can’t apple pick due to a poor crop. The cider is very pricey, but super delicious! Terry encourages you to go this weekend-lines are usually shorter on Sundays. I would call first, to make sure they have supplies.

Tacoma

Family Nature Walks with Metro Parks at Wapato Hills Park 10AM Naturalists lead free walks at area parks. Free but registration is required. Not recommended for kiddos under 3 and not suitable for strollers

Kiddigits Halloween event at the Tacoma Mall

Make a Plate Event at Learning Sprout Toys keepsake plate making 10.00 (This is a good deal if your kiddo doesn’t make ’em at school) 10AM-3

Celtic Faire at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Play area open with our sponsors at Frog n Kiwi in University Place from 8AM-1PM today and 8AM-10:30 Sunday Book your rainy month parties soon!

University Place Presbyterian Hosts a Harvest Fest 2-4:30 games, treats, costumes

Bonfires, Beaver Pelts, and Boogeymen Night time story telling event at Ft.Nisqually Buy tickets online in advance I have more about this event here.

Visit the Lighthouse Museum at Browns Point Lighthouse Park Free and open 1-4 on Saturdays through November Small, but super friendly folks and lots for the kids to touch and try!

Haunted Theater at the Tacoma City Ballet Special back stage tours of specially decorated rooms. Costumed dancers and a performance. Children are invited to wear costumes. I have just a bit more detail about it in a post here! Tickets are 5.00 and 6.00 and performances are select Friday, Saturday, and Sundays from the 19th-27th.

NightHowl for Scouts at the Tacoma Nature Center Know a junior Girl Scout, Cub Scout, or Webelos? Have ’em check this event out. 12.00 Scout/pre-registration is required

South Tacoma/Lakewood

Visit the petting zoo and pumpkin patch at City Goat Farm and Zoo

Go Away Big Green Monster Halloween Story Time at Lakewood Barnes and Noble 11AM stories, costume parade, and more fun! Perfect for kids 3-7

Children and all ages shows at the Pierce College Science Dome/planetarium2PM children’s show on Pluto; 3:15 all ages show on black holes

LeMay Museum Trunk or Treat Kids get to go from vintage car to vintage car getting treats from trunks! Free Note this is at the events center, not the Tacoma Dome museum

Beyond

Hoot n Howl at Northwest Trek Special Friday and Saturday event at NW trek with night time tram rides and treats and activities. We’ve done this before. Honestly? The boys loved it, but I thought it was a little pricey. I do see that they’re offering a discount for advance purchase. The tram ride is pretty cool, just do keep in mind that you’re not going to see a lot of creatures because, well, it’s Dark!

Ride the Pumpkin Express with Mt.Rainier Scenic Railroad Rides Kids get to pick a pumpkin at the end of the first stage. Tickets are a spendy 22.00-26.00 Pricey, but definitely fun for train lovers. You can read our review here. Be sure to read the comments for more input from readers. Note that the MRSR does come up on deal sites frequently, though you can only use the paid value on special rides. But, if you would just be in it for the train ride, and don’t care whether it’s a, “Pumpkin Express,” you may want to hold off for a future deal. KWIM?

Lacey/Olympia

Big LMNOP Kids Consignment Sale

Boo Bash at the Hands-on Children’s Museum (Scroll to Saturday and click on event for detailed listing_

Trick or Treat at St. Martin’s University 1-4PM Student guides lead children trick or treating through residence halls, followed by cider and other fun

Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center Free and open every weekend with special projects; link opens lengthy pdf; find today’s date for more program info.

Visit the new South Sound Estuarium 10AM-3PM

Bogo ticket deal to Olympia Family Theater begins a run of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe

Fall festival continues at Lattin’s Cider Mill

Gig Harbor/Kitsap

Haunted Gingerbread House Making at the Gig Harbor Library Make and take a, “Haunted,” gingerbread house. Free; supplies provided. Registration is required. 10, 11, or 11:30 Find time of your choice and click on, “Register,”

Indoor fall farmer’s market (old Peninsula Gardens site)

Ghost Train Run with the Kitsap Live Steamers

Harvest Fest at Miracle Ranch Port Orchard wagon rides and tons of free camp activities; additional pumpkin food for fees and food available for purchase Thanks, Macaroni Kid Kitsap

Kitsap area readers may also like to get the free newsletter from Macaroni Kid Kitsap

Sunday

Cedar River Salmon Migration Every weekend in October spot salmon returning with the help of volunteer naturalists Various Renton area sites More on salmon watching coming in a post next week!

Visit the new South Sound Estuarium 10AM-3PM

Bogo ticket deal to Olympia Family Theaters last showing of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe

A Night at the Movies Concert The Tacoma Youth Symphony will wear costumes and present music from popular movies including UP! and Star Wars. Family four packs available for 40.00 Two Show times October 27th

Trick or Treating at the Landing in Renton

Monster Mash Dash and Trick or Treat Bash with Pierce County Parks and Rec at Chambers Creek Community trick or treating event with vendors in the meadow from 12-2 followed by a non competitive 5K or 1mile Dash Strollers and dogs welcome; come in costume!

Halloween Event at the Museum of Flight free admission for kids in costume; special Halloween flight themed activities (think broomsticks and bats)!

Autumn Fest at the First Baptist Church, Port Orchard Thanks, Macaroni Kid Kitsap

Family Halloween Paddle

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South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Events and Activities for September 13th-15th!

September 13, 2013 by Maegen Blue Leave a Comment

TGIF! Looking for fun for your South Sound family? There’s a little something going on in Puyallup, but there’s lots of fun all over the South Sound!

If you’re anywhere near Tacoma, Lakewood, or Greater Pierce County, you’re going to walk to take your little transportation lover to Touch a Truck at Sprinker. There are several special community events in Lacey and Olympia, too, especially for my military families-and fun, in-store events all over!Headed elsewhere? For Seattle or Portland area fun you’ll want to check out the fantastic list over at ThriftyNWmom compiled by the newest member of their frugal finding team, Annaliese of Grays Harbor Deals!

All Weekend

It’s Western Washington State Fair time-aka The Puyallup Fair See this post for my best tips on saving a few bucks. See this post for a list of kid friendly entertainment.

Saturday

All Over

Kids’ Club at Michael’s stores Kids can craft while you shop in store. 2.00 per child; sessions start on the half-hour. From 10-11:30. Stamp art project today

Cra-z-Loom Bracelet making event at Toys R Us Free bracelet make and take event Every Saturday August 24th-October 26th 10AM-12 Always a good idea to call your local store to confirm. There is a good chance your kiddos will want to buy this bracelet making thing-which looks pretty cool! There is also a Power Disc trade event. I don’t know what these are, but if you do, you can get the scoop through the same link!

Almost all Farmer’s Markets are still open everywhere! Find one here Get your fresh on while you can!

South King County

Open House at the Maple Valley Fire Department Thanks, ThriftyNWMom readers

Hops and Crops at the Mary Olsen Farm in Auburn. Tour the restored farm; craft beer samples for grown-ups (extra charge for this), root beer for kids and kids’ activities. 7.00 for adults; free for kids 13 and under. My family has done this twice. It’s a low key event, but a fun time, especially if you’re into area history. If you want to do the beer tasting, buy a 15.00 ticket online (it’s 20.00 at the door).

Frog Frolic at Shadow Lake Bog in Renton More detail in the calendar listing

Star Wars Adventure Day at the Covington Library 2-4PM

Story time with Arthur at Southcenter Barnes and Noble 11AM Costumed character appearance-Bring your camera! Story, activities, light refreshments. Weekly story times are perfect for kids 3-7.

Touch tanks at HCC Mast at Redondo Free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2 Kids can touch a variety of sea critters

Play with our sponsors at Trampoline Nation They have air conditioning!

Tacoma/Greater Pierce

Free Recess Monkey Concert at Charles Wright Academy! Bring a picnic and dance off summer with the popular kindie rock group on the lower lawn.

Need to cool off? The spraygrounds are still on in Tacoma weekends through September 29th It’s also the last days for swimming at the Fircrest Pool. For the complete list of pools and water play areas still open, go here or head one post down.

Crafts of the Past at Fort Nisqually Artisans demonstrate different crafts from the 1800s each week. Included with fort admission.

Visit our sponsors at City Goat Farm and Zoo! You can now ride a zebra or a camel!! plus loads of other cuteness!

The play area is open at Frog n Kiwi today. Be sure to thank them for being sponsors this month if you have a chance! You might also want to ask about their new party options!

Story Time with Corduroy Bear at Lakewood Barnes and Noble 11AM Costumed character appearance

Dupont, Gig Harbor, Key Center, and University Place all have used book sales at the library today.

Free Movie at Cheney Stadium! 5:30 It’s Monsters vs Aliens

Pier Peer at the Foss Waterway Seaport Night time event for kids 8 and up. Registration and fees required. We’ve done these and enjoyed them. Good for kids interested in marine biology and science.

Lacey/Olympia

Pet Day at the Lacey Community Market

Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center Free and open every weekend with environmental information and activities Program today is a slide show followed by a tour of the Budd Inlet treatment plant beginning at 1PM. 10 and up; closed toe shoes. Younger children can do other activities at the center.

Saturday storytime at the Olympia Barnes and Noble 1PM Every Saturday

Visit the new South Sound Estuarium

Gig Harbor/Kitsap

Dupont, Gig Harbor, Key Center, and University Place all have used book sales at the library today.

The farmer’s market at Uptown is open! From 9-10 every Saturday there is free entertainment for kids-lessons, sing alongs, and more! Maybe get some Menchies and then ride the trolley down to the waterfront…..just because!

Fox Island Market today, too!

Looking for a furry friend? Dog rescue event at Mud Bay

Ride the Kitsap Live Steamers Never done this? I have a post about it here.

Story Time at the Kitsap Barnes and Noble 11AM “Food for thought,” books about meals and food today.

Kitsap area readers may also like to get the free newsletter from Macaroni Kid Kitsap If you’re headed to the Just Between Friends Sale Bremerton Diane has a coupon for you

Sunday

Visit our sponsors at City Goat Farm and Zoo! They’ve got a zebra now, plus loads of other cuteness! Yes, they’re back open, and Paige the dog is home. I’d wear boots!

Play with our sponsors at Jump! Gig Harbor Open play from 9:30-11:30 Check out their nicely updated website!

Crafts of the Past at Fort Nisqually Artisans demonstrate different crafts from the 1800s each week. Included with fort admission.

Know something great I missed? Want publicity for your group or advertising for your family friendly business? Just let me know!

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The Weekend List: South Sound Fun For Kids and Families for September 7th-9th!

September 7, 2012 by Maegen Blue 1 Comment

Looking for something fun to do with the kids this weekend in Tacoma, Auburn, Lakewood, Olympia, or another South Sound spot? You’ve come to the right spot for a whole list of affordable South Sound fun for kids and families this weekend.

If you’re headed north or south, you’ll want to check out the fantastic list over at ThriftyNWmom compiled by super bargain sleuth Sia of Centsible in Seattle.

It looks like we’re getting one more day of gorgeous summer! It would be a great day to head to one of Metro Parks Tacoma’s Free Spraygrounds.

Saturday

All Over

Lowes Build and Grow Advance registration required for these popular, free programs 10AM It’s a Chuck E Cheese skee ball roller today.

Grandparent’s Day Make it; Take it at Michael’s Picture Frame Decorating 10AM-12 Free with purchase of 1.00 frame

South King County

Frog Frolic in Renton at the Shadow Lake Nature Preserve 1PM Open House/Fundraiser with Free admission, kids’ activities, and guided tours

Water Weekends at HCC Mast at Redondo Every Saturday you can get up close with critters in the touch tanks and learn about sea life from 10-2 Here’s their Facebook page

Arts of India Festival at Saltwater State Park Entertainment, food and artisan booths. You will need a Discover Pass for park entry. Also Sunday

Tacoma/Greater Pierce County

It’s Puyallup Fair time! Go here for my post with ideas on how to save on your trip.

First Responders and their families skate for free at Tiffany’s Skate Inn

Pooch Pool Party Take your 4 legged friend for a swim before the Stewart Heights Pool is drained for the year. 10.00/dog; Human spectators are free (Only dogs get to swim).

Touch a Truck at Sprinker Free! Kids can climb in, on, and around all kinds of big rigs and cool cars. Foodbank donations invited. You can read more in my post here.

Kids’ Gardening Class with the Master Gardeners at the WSU extension in Puyallup Free classes begin at 1. From the link, click on “Children’s Garden Programs.”

Summit Kids Garden Club 1-3 at the Summit Library. Kids 6 and up are invited to join Master Gardeners. Wear clothes that can get messy. Grown-ups welcome. Link opens pdf

Family Day at the Museum of Glass Special activities for the family with a visiting artist. Included with admission. MOG admission is spendy. I *think* you can use a free library pass on family days.

Ventriloquist Andy Locke shares books with kids at the Tillicum Library at 2

Gig Harbor/Kitsap/Beyond

Open House/Anniversary Celebration at the Gig Harbor YMCA 10-1 Free bounce house, water slide, and other activities. No joining fees today.

Ride the Kitsap Live Steamers!

If you’re one of my Kitsap area readers, you’ll also enjoy the Kitsap Macaroni Kid. You can sign up for Diane’s newsletter to get the scoop on all kinds of events around you!

Lacey/Olympia

Military Family Day Free event for military families at Cabela’s. 9:30-2 Free food and drink, entertainment, helicopter candy drop and more.

Tumwater Community Day Free community event with Touch a Truck, Bounce Houses and other Kids’ Activities. Mobile shredding unit available for document shredding. Low cost bike helmets. Link opens a pdf.

Bud Inlet Treatment Plant Tour from the LOTT WET Science Center in Olympia Kids 10 and up can find out how wastewater is treated. Begins at 1. Flat, closed-toe shoes required. Too young? Other junior scientist activities available at the center. Link opens large pdf file.

Steamboat Pet Fair at the Steamboat Animal Hospital in Olympia 9-1 Free event with petting zoo, face painting, police dog demonstrations and much more. Thanks, Kristin for sharing this on the Sounds Fun Mom Facebook Page.

Elsewhere in the South Sound

Morning at the Movies in Buckley Family friendly movie at the Buckley Library at 11

Matinee in Eatonville Family friendly movie shows at the Eatonville Library at 2

Sunday

It’s Grandparent’s Day! If you celebrate this day, you might want to make a card for yours.

Grand Mummies and Deadies Day A special day at the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma in honor of Grandparents Day. Grandparents and kids can enjoy special activities in conjunction with the museums ongoing mummy exhibit. 11-2

Arts of India Festival at Saltwater State Park Entertainment, food and artisan booths. You will need a Discover Pass for park entry.

It’s Puyallup Fair time! Go here for my post with ideas on how to save on your trip.

First Responders and their families skate for free at Tiffany’s Skate Inn

Know something I missed? Don’t be shy-let me know!

If you’re new here, I hope you’ll consider subscribing to my emails, joining us on Facebook, or following me on Twitter! I write just for South Sound families, and I have new ideas every day! You’re also always welcome to drop me a line if you know something great I missed, or just want to give me a tip.

The Weekend List: South Sound Fun for Kids and Families for August 10th-12th

August 10, 2012 by Maegen Blue 1 Comment

Looking for something fun to do with the kids this weekend in Tacoma, Auburn, Lakewood, Olmypia, or another South Sound spot? You’ve come to the right spot for a whole list of affordable South Sound fun for kids and families this weekend.

If you’re headed north or south, you’ll want to check out the fantastic list over at ThriftyNWmom compiled by super bargain sleuth Sia of Centsible in Seattle. It is Seafair Weekend, so if you’re headed towards Seattle, be aware you’ll need to work around Seafair traffic.

If you’re one of my Kitsap area readers, you’ll enjoy the Kitsap Macaroni Kid. You can sign up for Diane’s newsletter to get the scoop on all kinds of events around you!

Ongoing

PenMet Parks presents Enchanted Sleeping Beauty Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 7PM through the 19th at Sehmel Park in Gig Harbor Tickets 5.00

Midsummer Renaissance Faire at Kelley Farm in Bonney Lake Royalty, fairies, and pirates (?) for the next two weekends. If you didn’t score the recent Groupon (sold out), you can save 5.00 if you get a copy of the Go guide in Friday’s TNT and scan the barcode with your phone. Otherwise, kids over 6 start at 12 and grown-ups start at 18. Fb readers say to leave your strollers at home.

Seussical the Musical at the Little Theater in Auburn at Thomas Jefferson High School tickets 10.00

All Weekend

Pierce County Fair 5.00 admission; lots of old-fashioned fun at this smaller fair in Graham

Just Between Friends Kids’ Clothing and Gear Consignment Sale in Lacey Tons of bargains for the kiddos. Tell ’em SFM sent ‘ya!

Performances of Little Mermaid and Cinderella by students from summer camps at the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. Tickets 7.00

Friday

Summer Stories and Crafts for preschoolers 3-6 and their grown-ups 10:30 at Summit, Parkland/Spanaway and Bonney Lake

Stuffed Animal Sleep Over at the Puyallup Public Library 3PM Drop off furry friends for a night off fun. Kids can pick them up Saturday during normal hours. There will be pictures of their adventures. I know-how cute is that?

Summer Bash at the STAR Center in Tacoma 5PM Free community celebration with games, entertainment and movies at dusk (It’s Cars II). Event rotates around Tacoma Community Centers through the end of the month

Summer Sounds and Cinema in Auburn It’s Toy Story

Outdoor Movie at the Sprinker Rec Center It’s Tin Tin

Free Outdoor Movie in Kent. It’s The Muppets

Fircrest Fun Days begin

Auburn Days begin (They’ve dropped the good, ‘ol) parade, kids’ activities, car show, and more.

Saturday

All Over

Lowes Build and Grow It’s a Shrek dragon. Also on Sunday Advance registration required for these popular, free programs.

South King County

Auburn Days (They’ve dropped the good, ‘ol) parade, kids’ activities, car show, and more. Also on Sunday

Water Weekends at HCC Mast at Redondo Every Saturday you can get up close with critters in the touch tanks and learn about sea life.

Fife/Puyallup/Sumner/Bonney Lake/Orting

Edgewood Picnic Annual city picnic with food and old-fashioned games for the kids.

SummerFest in Orting

Lego Madness at the Orting Library Kids 6 and up are invited to drop in and Lego between 1-3

Read With a Dog at the Puyallup Public Library Kids can drop in between 11:30-12:30 to practice reading with yellow lab, Coach

Children’s Gardening Class in Puyallup with the Master Gardeners Free class beginning at 1. Learn about bats and make a bat house this week.

Tacoma/Greater Pierce County

Ruston Family Fair car show, lots of old-fashioned fun Streets around Don’s

Thomas the Tank Engine Party at the Swasey Branch of the TPL For kids 6 and under. You do need to register. 10:30-11:30

Summit Garden Club Kids 6 and up can join a master gardener at the Summit Library for free gardening activities. Wear clothes to get dirty. 1-3 Parents welcome

In the Spirit: Native American Arts Market and Festival at the Washington State History Museum Vendors, entertainment, free museum admission

Fircrest Fun Days Parade, Rhubarb from the Rainiers, fireworks

Brigade Encampment at Ft.Nisqually Actors in period dress recreate the arrival of fur traders. Kids’ activities, chance to participate in hands-on demonstrations, and more. Admission is charged. 5.50 kids/8.50 adults 31.00 for a family

Crafts from the Past at Ft.Nisqually Each weekend, a different 19th century craft will be demonstrated. It’s a Punch and Judy puppet show in conjunction with the Brigade Encampment (see above). There is a charge for the Brigade Encampment. I’m pretty sure this is included at no extra charge. I’ll double check.

Family Gaming at the Wheelock Library at 2 Drop in and play favorite games for the whole family.

Gig Harbor/Kitsap

Fox Island Fair

Life on a Colonial Lavender Farm at Blue Willow Farm on the Key Peninsula Every Saturday through August the farm is open with costumed actors recreating life during the colonial era. Free but lavender and items available for purchase.

Heroes of the Sky at the Key Peninsula Library 11AM Tales of the constellations

Kitsap Live Steamers run today in Port Orchard

Lacey/Olympia

Just Between Friends Sale Tons of bargains on kids’ gear and clothes.

Visit the LOTT WET Center in Olympia Every Saturday the center is open with free, science and environmental education activities Come at 2 today for Pond Life Safari with a bug slide show and the chance to use microscopes. Link is a large-ish pdf

Museum Goodbye Party at the HOCM in Olympia Celebrate the HOCM and leave a message on the wall before the museum moves into its new digs.

Free outdoor movie in Lacey Dusk at Huntamer Park. It’s double feature night with Hairspray and Mamma Mia (Probably for tweens and up)

Storytelling with the South Sound Storytellers Guild at Priest Point Park in Olympia Family stories followed by scarier tales.

Parent’s Night Out at the Hands-on Children’s Museum Registration required

Sunday

Be sure to also check the listings under, “All weekend,” and, “Ongoing,” above.

Open trails at the Morse Wildlife Preserve in Graham

Family Fun Days at Emerald Downs in Auburn From 1:30-5:30 kids can get free pony rides and face painting

Families can visit the restored Mary Olson farm in Auburn for free on Saturdays and Sundays all summer

100 Things to Do in the South Sound

Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Here’s a list of over 100 ideas featured right here in the South Sound! These are things you can enjoy year round, listed by geographic location.

If you’re visiting right now because you’re trying to find things to do with the kids over spring break, I do have a guide just for that!

If you’re here for weekend fun, there is an amazing guide to Everything going on around the South Sound over the weekend that goes up on the home page every Friday morning.

100 Places To Go

Here, There and Everywhere

Check out a Sandy South Sound Beach or Lake

Explore a beach at low tide

Paint your own pottery at a local studio

Score a perfect 10 with your kiddo on the ice skating rink

Go totally 80s and hit up the roller skating rink

Work on your golf swing at a mini golf course

Visit a Museum for FREE with a Library Pass

Ride a carousel or merry go round

Grab two scoops at your favorite ice cream shop

Take a field trip to Auntie Anne’s Pretzels

Go for a swim at these impressive indoor aquatic centers

South King County

Bring a picnic to Lake Meridian and let the kids play at the awesome playground

For the tiny tots, check out the City of Kent Indoor Park

Pretend you are an Olympic gymnast at the The Metropolitan Gym‘s Open Gym sessions

Federal Way

Jump around, jump around, jump up, jump up and get down at Trampoline Nation

Take a picturesque stroll along the beautiful boardwalk of the West Hylebos Wetlands Park

Walk through a nature preserve and emerge onto beautiful, secluded Dumas Bay

Enjoy a full day at one of the South Sound’s most beautiful beaches, Dash Point State Park

Catch a $2.99 movie AMC Gateway 8 Theater

Float along the lazy river at the Federal Way Community Center Pool

Auburn

Take in a performance at the Evergreen City Ballet

Have the kids let off some steam at Les Gove Discovery Playground and Rotary Sprayground

Take a free tour of the stables and facilities at Emerald Downs

Pop in for an Open Gym session at The Auburn Gymnastics Center

Hang out at the Gymnasium at Les Gove Park, where kids can play at the indoor gym or tackle the rock climbing wall

Romp around the indoor play area at The Outlet Collection {formerly known as the Supermall} then hitch a ride on the carousel

Try out the Bungee Trampoline at Super Jump Party Zone

Visit the kid friendly, historical White River Valley Museum

Enumclaw

Cruise the indoor park at Peak Gymnastics

Eatonville

Have a splash in the calm Mashell River

Pierce County

Fife

Meet friends at the popular Wedge Park

Take the whole family for a swim at The Fife Swim Center for only $12.25

Bonney Lake

Hunt for adorable Gnome Homes in Bonney Lake

Eatonville

Visit area animals in their natural habitats at NW Trek

Fircrest

Take your runner to the Fircrest Tot Lot, where they can’t escape because it’s fully fenced!

Lakewood

Take in a Children’s Show at the Pierce College Science Dome

Pet animals in an indoor petting zoo at JOZEE ROOZ

Take a multicultural excursion at Asian supermarket Paldo World

Let the kids storm the castle at Ft.Steilacoom Park

Pierce County Parks and Recreation has a new indoor playground for preschoolers at Sprinker Tuesday and Thursday mornings. (Closed June 13, 2017-Sept 10, 2017)

Pierce County Walking Guide