ParentMap Insiders’ Guide 2024

Insiders’ Guide

2024/2025

Explore the San Juan Islands on a Budget 7

Money-saving ideas for one of the Pacific Northwest’s destination gems

Dessert Cafés Are All the Rage 15

Move over, ice cream! These unusual confections are something special

Set Out to Find Seattle’s Secret Beaches 19

Count on fewer crowds and breathtaking views along these lesser-known shores

Hit a Home Run at a Mariners Game 27

A local mom of three dishes on her top T-Mobile Park tips for families

Cover photo by Ling Ling Zheng Photography/linglingzhengphotography.com

Photo by Lindsey Carter

Photo by Meredith Charaba

Photo by Kathryn Mueller

Photo by Lauren Braden

Inquiring Minds Want To

Know

Back in the day (and I’m dating myself here), I used to love thumbing through the tabloid magazines at the checkout counter while grocery shopping with my mom. The genius of titles such as “World’s Smartest Ape Goes To College,” “Bat Boy Leads Cops on 3 State Chase” or “Vampires Attack U.S. Troops” is that they captured everyone’s attention, whether you read them in earnest or ironically. There wasn’t a person in line who didn’t have an “enquring mind” that wanted to know.

Behind the click-bait factor of those glossy rags, is a comforting truth — humans are hardwired to be curious. It’s how we learn. And it’s vitally important to our continued development and growth throughout our lives. At ParentMap, we pride ourselves on always being curious, even after 21 years in the business.

Case in point, our family fun editor, Meredith Charaba, and her adorable two-year-old set out on a veritable beach odyssey to find the best streetend shores (a.k.a. “secret” beaches) in Greater Seattle (p. 19), so you and your kids can find a little space along our Puget Sound coastline (no offense, Green Lake and Alki). And our email specialist, Devon Hammer, braved an early-season Mariners game with her kids in tow to give you that POV perspective that’s invaluable, whether you’re a newbie or veteran baseball fan. (p. 27)

Writer Kathryn Mueller always approaches culinary assignments with a curiosity that leads to unexpected things. In this instance, she found a cheesecake mousse bulldog (seriously) on her quest to uncover unusual sweets at local dessert cafés (p. 15). And for all of your family’s San Juan Islands adventures, we’ve got ideas to save you money from the moment you step off the ferry (p. 7) thanks to writer Lauren Braden.

Here’s to continually exploring and staying curious!

— Allison Sutcliffe, managing editor

INSIDERS’ GUIDE 2024/2025

PUBLISHER

Alayne Sulkin

EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR

Allison Sutcliffe

SENIOR EDITOR

Kristin Leong

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Kari Hanson

FAMILY FUN EDITOR

Meredith Charaba

CALENDAR EDITOR

Julie Dodobara

COPY EDITOR

Sunny Parsons

CONTRIBUTORS

Lauren Braden, Kathryn Mueller

DIGITAL MARKETING

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Lindsey Carter

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST

Devon Hammer

SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Brooke Collins

ADVERTISING SALES + PARTNERSHIPS

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PARTNERSHIPS +

ADVERTISING SALES

Jessica Collet

SENIOR ADVERTISING AND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

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Shannon Johnson

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CLIENT SERVICES + DESIGN COORDINATOR

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What’s your favorite neigborhood eatery only locals know?

outside of Kyoto!

Spoon & Straw –it’s the best acai bowl I’ve had!

Cascadia Pizza in Maple Valley. The location is the perfect spot for a summer evening.

Bakery Nouveau in West Seattle — the twice baked almond coissant is decadent perfection.

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Subscription rate 1 year: $12

Chuck’s Donuts in Renton. Try the maple bars and go early or they may sell out!

Sushi Joa on Mercer Island – best Agedashi Tofu

•

•

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•

(one

info@yellowwoodacademy.org

Budget-Friendly San Juan Islands for Families

What to do with kids on Orcas, Lopez and San Juan Islands

By Lauren Braden

Have you given up on the San Juan Islands because of the ferries, the crowds and the steep overnight lodging rates? Not so fast. If you haven’t visited in a while, let me assure you: Lopez Island has not suddenly transformed into Nantucket.

Our gorgeous San Juans are as laidback and charming as ever, especially if you know when to go and where to find the best deals.

My budget-conscious family boards a ferry to the San Juans about once a year, a pilgrimage to emerald isles that immerses our son in Northwest nature and gently nudges him to slow down to the pace of “island time.”

Even the one-hour ferry crossing (which you can reserve) is an adventure for kids as you can spot many different types of sea life, from cormorants to orcas to harbor seals. Once on the islands, pebbly beaches invite our son to indulge in one of his favorite pastimes: skipping rocks. And clear, dark skies away from city lights are perfect for stargazing.

Orcas Island for families on a budget

The largest of the San Juan Islands, Orcas is about 60 square miles, but you can cover the main roads by car in just a few hours. That is, unless you’re like me and pull over every time you see a sign that reads “berries” or “pottery.”

This pastoral island is patch worked with swatch es of farmland, pockets of forest and small island villages. Orcas Island falls short on public beach access, though this con is made up for by a very big pro: massive Moran State Park, with its two freshwater lakes and very own mountain. Hike (or drive) to the top of Mount Constitution to get a view of the surrounding straits. You have to see it to believe it.

What to do on Orcas Island

Ramble up a lush forested hill on Turtleback Mountain, or circle Mountain Lake at Moran State Park (a Discover Pass is required to park). Much of the island is made up of small family-run farms, and you’ll find that many of them are open (with alpacas to pet) on weekends, selling eggs, fruit and pottery (see the list of local farms).

All these farms convene at the Orcas Island Farmers Market on summer Saturdays, May–September. The Funhouse Commons (30 Pea Patch Lane) is an activity center for kids and families; check the website for current programs.

Where

to stay on Orcas Island

A longtime favorite place to lodge is Doe Bay Resort, on the island’s far eastern shore. No longer the hippie haven it once was, Doe Bay still has plenty of counterculture vibe and

organic charm (yes, those famous clothing-optional hot tubs). Accommodations include cabins with kitchenettes, off-the-grid yurts and campsites. The seasonal menu served by the on-site Doe Bay Café is tasty enough for foodies, yet accommodating for small picky eaters.

After the recent acquisition of a neighboring inn, Rosario Resort & Spa (renamed Rosario Village) has more affordable accommodation options, with harborside rooms, kitchen suites (a major bonus for my family) and spacious decks, located right on the shores of Cascade Bay. Outlook Inn, in downtown Eastsound, offers a variety of choices for families, from suites with harbor views to European-style rooms with shared bathrooms

Nearby Moran State Park boasts the cheapest sleeps on Orcas: lakefront campsites just steps from a swimming beach and hiking trails.

Where to eat on Orcas Island

You’ll find a small selection of restaurants in Eastsound with options to suit all families. We love the New Leaf Café

Photo by Lauren Braden

Do you love to sing?

SGC is auditioning new choristers in grades K-12.

continued from page 7

at Outlook Inn for its French-inspired breakfast and the perfect cup of coffee, followed by a morning spent browsing Darvill’s Bookstore and its wonderful collection of children’s books across the street. For a quick espresso drink and artisan-baked croissant, hit up Brown Bear Baking.

San Juan Island for families on a budget San Juan Island is the easiest of the islands to visit without a car, thanks to the tourist-friendly town of Friday Harbor. Disembark from the ferry and you’re smack-dab in the middle of bustling restaurants, good hotels and indie boutiques. Bring your car if you wish to explore the island’s unique rural beauty beyond Friday Harbor, including bucolic alpaca farms, some awesome coastal parks, and a cool sculpture park home to 150 unique outdoor art creations by world-renowned sculptors. Alternatively, you can get around via San Juan Transit, where an all-day pass will cost you $15 ($10 for 12 and younger).

Photo by Lauren Braden

What to do on San Juan Island

Take a hike! Kids will love exploring the tide pools and interpretive nature trails at San Juan Island National Historical Park. On the island’s west shore, Lime Kiln Point State Park is known as a great spot to watch for passing orcas — more plentiful in summer — and it also boasts 1.6 miles of hiking trails through a hillside forested with madrone trees. Kids can learn all about amazing orcas at The Whale Museum.

On the south end of San Juan Island sits my family’s favorite spot: a bluff-top prairie called American Camp — the former home of U.S soldiers during the U.S./British occupation of the mid-1800s. A new visitor center is now open Wednesday–Sunday, 1–3 p.m. The center has books and guides to island history and wildlife, and offers nature and history walks (on weekends through August) led by local rangers. Keep an eye out for the special wildlife that calls these grasslands home, such as the red fox,

The 5th Avenue Theatre’s production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s

NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 22

continued from page 9

European hare and vesper sparrow.

Where to stay on San Juan Island

The best value for families is to book a hotel-style room at Discovery Inn.

For a bit of modernist flair, book a room or suite with a kitchenette at Earthbox Inn & Spa in downtown Friday Harbor, a refurbished motor inn with an on-site spa and indoor pool, plus jewel-toned pedal cruisers for guests who want to take a spin around town.

For a splurge, the cute historic cottages at Roche Harbor Resort hail from the 1890’s and sit right on the harbor shore. On a recent stay here, we loved having two nice-sized bedrooms and a full kitchen stocked with all the necessary cooking supplies, saving us cash from eating out. The best seat in the house is on the cottage’s front porch for morning coffee and watching the evening sun set over the water.

Lakedale Resort offers a family glamping option: woodfloored canvas tent cabins scattered in the woods along a freshwater lake, fully furnished to sleep four. Public campsites are scarce on San Juan Island, but if you’re lucky, you can reserve one with a killer view at San Juan County Park.

Where to eat on San Juan Island

Pick up some gourmet picnic fare at The Market Chef, maker of artisan sandwiches and healthy salads. Stop in at Van Go’s Pizza for delicious thin-crust pizzas the whole family will love, from good ol’ pepperoni to prosciutto and pear.

Lopez Island for families on a budget

Just a 45-minute ferry ride from Anacortes are the quiet coves and driftwood-strewn beaches of friendly Lopez Island. The flattest of the main islands, Lopez features quiet country roads that criss-cross family farms and peaceful pastureland; they seem made for riding — bicycles, that is.

Got a whole family of pedal pushers? You can even walk your bikes onto the ferry in Anacortes and leave the family car behind, or rent them at Village Cycles. The island’s only settlement is tiny Lopez Village, comprising a few short streets lined with cafés and a grocery store. Most of the berry farms, public beaches and restaurants are scattered throughout the island.

What to do on Lopez Island

Explore tide pools on the island’s west shore at Shark Reef Sanctuary. A 10-minute hike through beautiful woods leads to a rocky outcrop dotted with twisted madrone trees and

the most incredible view of the Salish Sea. On a recent visit at low tide, we were serenaded by boisterous barking from the rocks just offshore as dozens of seals were sunning themselves, as seals do. My son Isaac enjoyed the wind on his face as he counted the seals through binoculars, and watched as pups competed for prime real estate on the rocks.

Rent kayaks or take a guided paddle around a sheltered bay with Lopez Island Sea Kayak, located on Fisherman Bay.

Where to stay on Lopez Island

Lopez has just a few lodging options. Lopez Islander Resort is a no-frills place tailor-made for families on vacation, with basic rooms that look out to the marina and sheltered bay, perfect for a child’s first kayak paddle. There’s also an on-site restaurant with local fare like steamed clams and pan-fried oysters, and a swimming pool.

Families with tents will love both the forested and waterfront campsites at Spencer Spit State Park. Another find is Odlin County Park, located a mile from the ferry terminal and featuring waterfront campsites and beach access. Reserve ahead of time.

Play with PASSION!

Mark your calendars for summer fun.

We’re open for play every day from JUN 24 – AUG 26! Check out our special events! Most are free with admission.

Family Pride Night FRI, JUN 14 • 3:30–7:30pm Super Science Activities

MON–FRI, JUN 17–AUG 26 10:30am & 2:30pm Art & Otter Pops

TUE, THU, SUN in JUL & AUG 2–3pm

Summer Nights (FRIDAYS) JUL 12 –AUG 16 • 4:30–8pm Waterfest

WED, JUL 31 • 10am–4pm Mud Play Day WED, AUG 28 10am–4pm

Where to eat on Lopez Island

Get your caffeine fix where the locals get theirs — at the funky shack known as Isabel’s Espresso (308 Lopez Rd.). You can take in the view while sipping your mocha (or hot chocolate for the kiddos) from a wraparound porch.

Haven Kitchen & Bar (9 Old Post Rd.) offers casual sophistication in the heart of Lopez Island. It serves locally grown, delicious food (with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options) in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Kids will love the cozy patio and the Tater Tots!

When you need a sweet treat, next door is the Lopez Island Creamery, featuring all-natural gourmet ice cream. Pick up a pint, an ice cream sandwich or a chocolate dipped cone, then take your treats to the public beach access down the stairs at the end of the parking lot. (Pro tip: You can also visit the new Lopez Island Creamery factory store in Anacortes!)

Be sure to stop by the Lopez Farmers Market on Saturdays (10 a.m.–2 p.m., May–September in Lopez Village) to stock up on fixings for your picnic on the beach at Odlin County Park.

Join us in Bellevue and experience the power of PLAY!

Free & discounted tickets available

A 501(C)(3) non-profit organization. KidsQuestMuseum.org

continued from page 11

Tips for saving yourself hassle and money on a family trip to the San Juans

The ferry crossing is expensive, so consider options that allow you to leave your car behind (passenger-only fares are much cheaper). If you are taking a car, take advantage of the Washington State Ferries San Juan Islands reservation system. Reserved spots are available on all westbound sailings from Anacortes and eastbound sailings from Friday Harbor and Orcas Island. Snag your spot as early as two months in advance, and as late as two days prior to your trip.

• If you are going to stop at multiple islands, go west first to San Juan Island, then stop at Orcas and Lopez on the return trip. (You’re only charged when you go west.)

• Weekends in July and August are the most expensive and busiest times to visit. They also happen to be the most gorgeous.

• Book accommodations that include a kitchen so that you can cook your own meals with fresh, local ingredients!

• Pack fixings for picnics to stretch your dollars. Dine with a view from an ocean bluff.

• Consider visiting during the off-season (October–April) for incredible deals on lodging.

• Travel with another family and rent a vacation house.

• If you are staying at the same place for three or more nights, ask for a discount.

• And, of course, the cheapest place to sleep is in your camping tent.

Lauren Braden is a Pacific Northwest writer who focuses on recreation and local travel. She blogs at nwtripfinder.com.

Lifelong Learning Begins at

In celebrating the uniqueness of every baby, we understand the importance of individualized schedules so, from Day One, we partner closely with each family to best understand those needs and make transitioning into care easier.

We regularly provide daily logs of feedings, changes, happenings, and new activities to keep parents informed about both the big and little things that are taking place every day for their precious little one.

Babies in the Infant Classrooms will:

• have individual schedules to meet their needs

• experience daily activities to promote language development and socialization

• get outdoors most typically in the mornings and afternoons

• take part in activities that encourage and develop fine- and gross motor skills

Popular Seattle Spots Serving Unique Treats

By Kathryn Mueller

The sun is shining, and temperatures are on the rise. Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s time to talk about refreshing and delectable sweets and treats. My kids and I searched Seattle for unique and noteworthy desserts and rounded up a list guaranteed to delight your sweet tooth. But there’s a catch! Here’s the scoop: You won’t find ice cream on this list, at least not without a twist. We wanted to think outside the cone, so we scoured the city for mouthwatering finds that go beyond the ordinary.

Lumi Dessert Café

Located in Lynnwood, in an unassuming shopping center with convenient parking, is a hidden dessert gem. The bright, airy space is a perfect place to gather and enjoy a mound of fluffy bingsu, an icy Korean dessert also known as “milk-snow.” LumiI’s mission is simple: to bring people together with delicious desserts.

Lumi’s handcrafted bingsu options were a hit with my kids. Bingsu is similar to shaved ice, but made with milk, which makes it super fluffy. It’s covered with a choice of toppings, including fruit, caramel sauce, boba and chocolate, among others. From Berrylicious to taro, Oreo Crunch to mango cheesecake, the melt-in-yourmouth snow will satiate your summer sugar craving and have you coming back for more. The bingsu is served on a cute tray with a saucer of condensed milk to drizzle on top.

Good news: A second location in Redmond opened in April

Find it: 4713 168th St. S.W., No. 101, Lynnwood

Snowy Village

Snowy Village has three locations in the Seattle area: one near the University of Washington, another in Bellevue and a third in Renton. So, no matter where you live, a milky frozen treat is within reach. Snowy Village also specializes in traditional bingsoo (another spelling of bingsu) as well as Japanese taiyaki, which essentially is an adorable fishshaped cake.

We tried the berry bingsoo, and it was so yummy. There are more fun flavors to pick from, including Fruity Pebble, cheesecake, green tea and mango.

Find it: 5264 University Way N.E., Seattle 1075 Bellevue Way N.E., Suite B1, Bellevue 827 N 10th Pl., Suite B, Renton

Cold Plate

We’re on a roll — and so is Cold Plate. Have you ever heard of rolled ice cream? You’ll find it here. It’s a unique way of preparing ice cream. Using an extremely cold surface, staff roll up the ice cream and serve it with a twist. We warned you there wouldn’t be any generic scoops in this list.

Cold Plate’s slogan is “It’s never to cold for ice cream,” and we have to agree.

Try its Strawberry Supreme (which includes Pop Rocks), black sesame or Thin Mint. Each cup of rolled ice cream is punctuated with an assortment of toppings and a big dollop of whipped cream.

Find it: 5240 University Way N.E., Suite B, Seattle

Sugar + Spoon

Did you ever get in trouble for eating cookie dough when you were a kid? Well, we have good news for you! Sugar + Spoon brings your childhood fantasies to life with edible cookie dough. What started as a classroom project at the University of Washington has taken to the streets in a small fleet of bright pink trucks. Sugar + Spoon offers cookie dough pop-ups around the Greater Seattle area. You can check out its website to see where the trucks will be parked next.

Flavors include classic chocolate chip, birthday cake, Party Animal and red velvet.

Marination Ma Kai

Aloha! We have a treat for you. Marination Ma Kai, nestled on the shores of Alki in West Seattle, serves a delicious shave ice (Why “shave ice” and not “shaved”? Because that’s the Hawaiian version, of course).

Anyway, Marination Ma Kai is the place

Photo by Kathryn Mueller

(507) 400-7526

continued from page 15

to be. With sweeping waterfront views of Seattle’s glimmering downtown and Hawaiian-Korean fusion cuisine, it’s worth the trek. (Hint: It’s located right next to the water taxi dock.)

The flavors are made in-house, and the awesome sauce is a must-try topping. Simply pick your flavor from a list of many, including strawberry, mango guava and others; pick your ice cream, either vanilla or co conut; and then watch as it’s all sandwiched together for you. It’s a treat you won’t forget.

Plan to stay awhile when you visit. Lines can be long in the summer. But don’t worry, there’s lots to explore nearby, from the water taxi to the people fishing off the pier. You can even explore the rocky shores a stone’s throw from the parking lot.

daughter will find it and she will order it. That’s what led us to Ice Monster in Bellevue. When we saw the shop had a dessert called Unicorn Sensation, we packed our bags and headed for Bellevue Square. Located in the mall, Ice Monster is the perfect place to stop when you’ve had your fill of shopping. The fantastical unicorn dessert features a mountain of shaved ice flavored with Calpico (a popular Japanese beverage) and fresh dragon fruit flavoring atop shaved ice with fresh cream, caramelized tapioca and Pop Rocks. Other flavors include mango, strawberry and bubble tea.

FD24_roaring_mouse_1-8v.indd 1 6/4/24 1:01 PM

Find it: 1660 Harbor Ave. S.W., Seattle

Timeless Tea

If I’m being completely honest, we wanted to check out Timeless Tea because we heard great things about its “snow ice,” but we ended up trying nearly every dessert on the menu, including a cheesecake mousse shaped like a bulldog. It is the cutest dessert in the world — almost too cute to eat.

When you go, be ready to spend some money. You’ll want to leave with more than a serving of snow ice.

Timeless Tea has three locations in the area: Seattle, Bellevue and Issaquah.

Find it: 1000 N.E. 50th St., Seattle

14320 N.E. 20th St., Unit D, Bellevue

1580 N.W. Gilman Blvd. Suite D5, Issaquah

Ice Monster

If there is a unicorn-themed dessert, my

My little ones loved the way the shaved ice melted in their mouths — and, of course, the popping sensation, courtesy of the Pop Rocks.

Find it: 1020 Bellevue Square, Bellevue

Kathryn Mueller is a mom of three, a transplant who fell in love with the splendor of Washington and now calls Shoreline home. She enjoys exploring Pacific Northwest trails with her children and toddling around the city for good eats and adventures.

Secluded Shores

Bring a picnic and enjoy the view on one of these lesser-known beaches

By Meredith Charaba

During one of my first summers in Seattle, I begged my friends for a beach day. We were so close to the water. The sun, after months of hiding, was out in full force. The water couldn’t be that cold, right? (Wrong.)

While the brisk water still catches me off guard, there is nothing I love more than a Seattle beach day. I know I’m not alone in that, judging by the summer crowds at Golden Gardens and Alki.

The lesser-known beaches and waterfront parks of Seattle offer all the fun of a beach day — gentle waves, small stretches of sand, passing boats — without the crowds. In fact, some of them are so small, they’re easy to miss if you’re not in on the secret. Inspired by the Seattle Department of Transportation’s interactive Shoreline Street Ends map, my family and I set out to uncover these hidden beaches and other waterfront parks.

So pack a picnic, a swimsuit (if you’re feeling brave), sunscreen and beach

toys, and discover your new favorite spot for that long-awaited summer sun.

Road End Beach, Yarrow Point

Aptly named “Road End Beach,” this small waterfront park is tucked away in a residential area at the end of a quiet street. Plan to park on the shoulder of the street perpendicular to the park and walk down to the beach. As we headed down the tree-lined steps, the park surprised us with gorgeous Lake Washington views and a grassy knoll perfect for picnicking.

We had the park to ourselves on a sunny Saturday morning. Waves gently crashed on the pebble beach, and the water was clear enough to look for fish. A long dock stretches out into the water, with a couple of benches at its end for watching the boats (and birds) go by.

Find it: Road End Beach is located at N.E. 47th Street in Yarrow Point.

Clyde Beach Park, Bellevue

Just 2 miles south of Road End Beach is Clyde Beach Park. While the small parking lot was nearly full, we still felt as though we had the place to ourselves. Picnic tables near the dock gave us a nice spot for a snack as we watched the boats go by on the water.

Sunbathers will appreciate the grassy hillside, while those who come to swim can take the stairs right down into the water. There is no sand at this beach park, but my daughter was more than pleased to see the nautical playground, complete with a large boat, slides and stairs to climb. Restrooms are located at the park entrance.

Find it: Clyde Beach Park is located at 2 92nd Ave. N.E. in Bellevue.

S. Norman Street End, Seattle

This tiny spot is one of the street-end beaches designated by the City Council as a public shore. While there is a bench under the shade of trees, there is no sand or beachfront. You do, however, get a serene view of mountains, passing boats and Lake Washington.

Photo by Meredith Charaba

continued from page 19

It’s also less than a mile from Leschi shops and restaurants. There are quite a few street-end beaches along this stretch of the shoreline, so you can get your steps in on a summer afternoon as you stroll down Lakeside Avenue S. to discover them.

Find it: S. Norman Street End is located at S. Norman Street and Lakeside Avenue S. in Seattle.

Jack Block Park, West Seattle

If you have friends or family visiting from out of town, this is the spot for showing them the city from afar. Just south of Alki Beach, Jack Block Park is a hidden gem that offers incredible views of the Seattle skyline, passing ferries and Mount Rainier (on a clear day).

The 15-acre park has a walking path and 45-foot-tall observation tower. While the rocky beach is open to the public, the park’s lesser-known status means you won’t see big crowds. There is also a small play area for kids, along with restrooms near the parking lot.

Find it: Jack Block Park is located at 2130 Harbor Ave. S.W. in West Seattle.

Lowman Beach Park, West Seattle

Head to this beach in West Seattle to keep your kids occupied for the afternoon. Along the path down to the beach, you’ll find grassy areas where you can set up a picnic, or, as we saw on our visit, a themed birthday party. There’s also a swing set with options for big kids and toddlers alike.

The rocky shore gave us plenty of opportunity to see crabs and other creatures, and when it was time for

Photo by Meredith Charaba

a rest, we sat on the driftwood and watched boats sail by. The only mistake we made was not picking up lunch on the way there, as the beach is in a residential area, and there aren’t any restaurants or vendors within walking distance. Also, there are no restrooms available.

Find it: Lowman Beach Park is located at 7017 Beach Dr. S.W. in West Seattle.

Fritz Hedges Waterway Park, Seattle

Bright yellow chairs dotting the park immediately caught my eye when we arrived at Fritz Hedges Waterway Park. This 3.5-acre waterfront park is adjacent to the University of Washington’s campus and gives park users plenty of opportunities to get in or sit by the water. You can rent kayaks nearby, and we saw plenty of them out on the water during our visit.

Even though the park was busier than I had expected, there was still plenty of room for us to sit and relax while the breeze coming off the water cooled us down in the sun. There’s also a charming path with benches and a pollinator garden that was buzzing with life. The nearby SeaFab Cafe offered a caffeine boost before we went on our way. Just keep in mind this is a busy stretch, so street parking may be hard to come by.

Find it: Fritz Hedges Waterway Park is located at 1117 N.E. Boat St. in Seattle.

51st Ave. N.E. Public Shore, Seattle

This small street-end park has just a picnic table and steps that go right into the water. While there is no access to the nearby dock or beach, park users will be rewarded with a stunning view of Mount Rainier. It was also fun to watch boats speeding by on the water. Lush green foliage gives this park the atmosphere of a secret garden.

Find it: The 51st Ave. N.E. Street End is located at 51st Avenue. N.E. and N.E. Laurelcrest Lane in Seattle.

N.E. 130th Street Public Shore, Seattle

This shoreline street end easily became our favorite. It feels private, tucked between gorgeous homes on the waterfront. Quiet, gentle waves lapped on the beach while my toddler squealed with delight that her beach toys could finally be put to use in the sand. We saw not one but two seaplanes, in addition

YOUTH ART SUMMER CAMPS

continued from page 21 to sailboats out on the water. It’s also close to the Burke-Gilman Trail and the Lake Washington Loop Trail. A bonus: Keep your eyes peeled for a life-size giraffe statue as you drive down Riviera Place N.E.

Find it: N.E. 130th Public Shore is located at Riviera Place N.E. and N.E. 130th Street in Seattle.

Photo by Meredith Charaba

E Hamlin St. Shoreline Street End (West End), Seattle

Pack a lunch and head to E. Hamlin Street to spend an afternoon at this charming street-end park, which has two picnic tables. The landscaping includes seasonal blooms to admire. Timber steps lead down to the shoreline, where you can watch the boats or just look out on the water.

Find it: E. Hamlin St. Shoreline Street End is located at Boyer Avenue E. and E. Hamlin Street in Seattle.

W. McGraw St. Public Shore, Seattle

If you’re looking for views of Puget Sound, head down the gravel path at McGraw Street and take a

seat at the picnic table or bench. Or walk down the parallel asphalt ramp to the water’s edge and search the rocky beach for treasures. This is also a magical spot for watching the sunset.

Find it: W. McGraw St. Public Shore is located at W. McGraw Street and Perkins Lane W. in Seattle.

Pioneer Square Habitat Beach

Watch the ferries cross Elliott Bay on this quiet stretch of shoreline in downtown Seattle. Sit on the large boulders, admire the local artwork installations or just enjoy the waterfront views. Keep in mind that since this is a marine habitat, there’s no swimming or personal watercraft allowed.

Find it: Pioneer Square Habitat Beach is located at 199 Alaskan Way, between Colman Dock and Pier 48 in Seattle.

Meredith Charaba is ParentMap’s family fun editor. She loves going on adventures with her husband, toddler and two dogs. When she’s not hiking kid-friendly trails or finding opportunities to play at nearby museums, she can be found grabbing a coffee before picking out books at the local library.

thelittleschool.org/explore

Photo by Meredith Charaba

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Why a Mariners Game Is a Home Run

T-Mobile Park basics for families

By Devon Hammer

All photos courtesy Lindsey Carter

I grew up in a family of six kids, and one of my favorite childhood memories is going to Mariners games with my dad: No siblings around to vie for my red rope licorice, chocolate malt ice cream or Dad’s attention. It didn’t hurt that the Mariners had record-breaking seasons during my formative childhood years, either. I can still remember most of the players from the Ken Griffey Jr. era, and the Kingdome will always hold a special place in my heart.

Sure, I’ve been to plenty of Mariners games since then, but attending a Major League Baseball (MLB) game with kids? That’s a whole new ballgame. Fortunately, M’s games offer plenty of winning attractions for kids, ensuring a successful family outing and creating those precious lifelong memories.

The Seattle Mariners

For the few who don’t know, the Mariners are Seattle’s MLB team. Their home turf is T-Mobile Park, which features a retractable roof, so games are played rain or shine. The regular season runs from late March through September. Games are played on various days in the afternoon or night.

Experiencing a game with kids

I recently set out to experience a Saturday-night game with my husband and our 7-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son on an unusually warm May evening. We took our seats behind home plate on the 100 level and had a blast rooting on our home team, even though the M’s ultimately lost.

My 9-year-old was enthralled with the action, while my 7-year-old mostly just danced in her seat trying to get on the jumbotron. We all excitedly yelled out our picks for the iconic ball under the hat game and hydroplane race, and we sang our hearts out to “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the seventh inning stretch. Free hot dogs parachuting down from the 200 level were the icing on the cake when it came to game-time entertainment. The highlight for everyone was watching two spirited guys in the section next to us successfully get the wave going all the way around the stadium. Nothing instantly bonds thousands of people quite like pulling off such a magical display. My daughter was in awe.

I noted that the game seemed to fly by. I was made aware of the new pitch timer rule changes implemented in 2023 to create a quicker pace of play. The game we saw was just over two hours long; I was expecting it to be closer to three hours. This will help parents’ chances of catching a whole game when their little cheering squad is in attendance.

We opted to get a babysitter for our 21-month-old. We’ve brought a 1-year-old to a game before and didn’t make it past two innings. Every kid is different, but keep your expectations low (and don’t spend a fortune on tickets) when you have toddler fans in tow. Games can be loud and overwhelming, and it’s hard for little

ones to sit for that long, even with distractions.

Winning activities for kids

Having a plan when the game grows long and the seats can no longer contain the wiggles is important to a successful family visit. Luckily, there are game-saving kid activities available when your little fans throw you a curveball.

Kids Corner

Right off the bat, after arriving at the stadium, we headed for Kids Corner on the 300 level. Your Mariner in training can try out the batting cages and show off how fast they can pitch (this is a paid attraction). Plus, you will find lots of photo ops, including one with a giant Funko Pop King Felix. The views of Elliott Bay and downtown on this side of the 300 level alone are worth the trek up the stairs. We also took advantage of the short vendor lines on the top level and grabbed some extra-cheesy, extra-delicious pizza.

Meet the Mariner Moose

After a few innings at our seats, our 7-year-old started to get antsy. We headed up for a Dippin’ Dots sugar fix and to check out another kids area, the Moose Den, which is located in cen ter field on the Main Level in Section 191. I noted in advance the times that the Mariner Moose would be in his Moose Den for pictures (from 90 to 30 minutes before the first pitch and mid 2–mid 3 and mid 7–mid 8). We headed over during a designated time, and this was when I realized, “Holy crap, my kids have aged out of character visits.” As I held back tears grappling with another reminder that kids don’t keep, they begrudgingly waited at my request. It was a quick line, and we got our picture taken

with the lovable moose. They even said he wasn’t as creepy as they thought he might be. I can imagine this being a major highlight for the 5-and-younger crowd.

Kids’ Playfield

The Kids’ Playfield is conveniently located right by the Moose Den. It’s a big Mariners-themed play structure for the 48-inchand-shorter crowd. I laughed quietly, observing the parents in the play area sipping their adult beverages while keeping an eye on their kids and the game on TV. This might be the only play area where you can drink a beer and watch baseball while your kiddo explores. I think they are onto something. My daughter loved climbing through the structure, and most kids her age or younger would have a blast. It’s a perfect spot for a seventh inning stretch or to use as motivation to sit a little longer.

Kids’ Clubhouse for Mariners gear

While my 7-year-old romped around the play structure, my 9-year-old ogled all the sweet Mariners gear inside the Kids’ Clubhouse. You will find everything from hats to Mariner Moose items.

First Mariners Game Certificate

If your kid is into sentimental items and you’re planning their first trip to the park, be sure to stop by one of the guest experience centers in Section 128, Section 329 or the ’Pen for a free First Mariners Game Certificate to mark the occasion. It might just be a treasure that makes it into their special box.

Seattle Mariners Kids Club

I noticed a little table advertising sign-ups near the Kids’ Playfield for the 2024 Seattle Mariners Kids Club. I didn’t have a chance to look into it while at the game, but now I wish I had. All fans 14 and younger can sign up for free and get a whole bunch of perks, including a free hat (while supplies last). Other special benefits include discounted tickets, early gate openings, a free game day ballpark tour ticket (with a paid adult ticket) and more. You can also sign up behind home plate on the 300 level.

The food

A visit to the ballpark isn’t complete without indulging in some tasty food. The stadium hits it out of the park with a variety of options, from gourmet to value-menu, kid-approved eats. From the famed garlic fries to Salt & Straw ice cream to Seattle’s own Moto Pizza, plan your tastebud tour of the stadium carefully and satisfy your every craving.

Tickets as low as $10 and special events

You don’t have to spend a fortune on tickets (and probably shouldn’t if you have young kids in your crew). Check out the dates for the Mariners Value Games, when you can score tickets as low as $10. There are also awesome upcoming events and special giveaway nights to mark on your calendar, such as Bark at the Park, when you can bring your dog to the game, a Run Around the Bases (postgame) event for kids, Star Wars Night and tons more.

The game wrap report

It’s no secret that a trip to see the Seattle Mariners play is an essential family outing in the Seattle area. Ticket prices, parking, and food and beverage costs can add up quickly though ($18 beer anyone?), so it’s important to have a game plan when attending with kids to make the most of your experience. A play structure in the park, a visit with the Mariner Moose, photo ops galore and a skills zone on the top level will help cover all the bases with your kids. This was a home-run outing for our family, and I look forward to introducing our youngest Mariner fan to T-Mobile Park soon.

If you go ...

When: The Mariners season runs from late March through September each year. Check the 2024 schedule online. Typically, night games are at 6:40 p.m. or 7:10 p.m., with various afternoon (12:40 p.m., 1:10 p.m. and 4:15 p.m.) games mixed in. Gates open 90 minutes before game time.

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Cost: Tickets start at $20 for general admission seating. Kids ages 2 and younger enter free. Promos, value games ($10 tickets) and special events can be found on the Mariners website.

Find it: T-Mobile Park is at 1250 First Ave. S., Seattle. Find directions on the Mariners website.

Parking: You can sometimes score free street parking south down First Avenue if you show up early enough. There are parking lots near the stadium charging anywhere from $10 to $40. Or, you can go with the super convenient option and park in the Mariners Garage for $55 (this was the price listed at the game we attended; it could vary). Another option to look into is Link light rail. You could thrill your littles with a bonus train experience, too!

Tips for bringing infants and toddlers: Strollers are allowed, but they would be tough to maneuver through the crowds, and you will encounter many stairs (though elevators are available). They can be stored at one of the guest service centers in Section 128 or 329. Baby-changing tables are located in most restrooms throughout the ballpark. A nursing lounge is available in Section 128. Bring noise-canceling headphones for tots sensitive to loud noises.

Carry-in item restrictions: Clear plastic or vinyl bags no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches are permitted. Diaper bags are permitted for guests accompanied by their little ones, and clutches smaller than 4.5 by 6.5 inches are also allowed. Factory-sealed bottles of water and one empty plastic reusable bottle 32 ounces or smaller in size are allowed. Outside food is permitted in single-serving sizes.

Devon Hammer is ParentMap’s email marketing specialist and a mother of three adorable kiddos. She spends her free time hiking and getting out and about with her family.

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