urban outdoors

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK, URBAN NATURE

    20+ Best Outdoor Kids Activities in Chicago

    Chicago may be known for its big city attractions, but there is plenty to do outdoors in this lovely Midwestern city, too! From exploring the shore of Lake Michigan to biking through the many parks and gardens, Chicago offers something for outdoor lovers of all ages. Today, long-time Chicago resident and mom of two, Tiana Kubik, is here sharing the best outdoor kids’ activities in Chicago. So, whether you’re a local or just visiting for the weekend, pack some snacks, grab your water bottle, and get ready to explore everything the Windy City has to offer outside for families! ​

    20+ best outdoor kids activities in chicagoBest Chicago parks for kids

    Chicago is packed with parks! They range in size from tiny pocket parks to acres of grass and trails filled with fun outdoor activities. No matter what part of Chicago you’re in, there’s sure to be a park nearby where you can enjoy some fresh air and green space. Here are just a few of our top picks for our family’s favorite outdoor Chicago parks for kids. 

    Grant Park: Millennium Park/Maggie Daley Park

    Located in downtown Chicago, in the heart of it all, sits Grant Park. Proudly referred to as “Chicago’s Front Yard,” Grant Park totals 312.98 acres and is a public park located in Chicago’s central business district in the Loop Community area. Grant Park’s most notable features include Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, Buckingham Fountain, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum Campus. 

    Millennium Park offers a variety of activities for all ages. The park is comprised of 5 main areas and is packed with fun things to do for everyone in your family. The Pritzker Pavilion offers a wide range of concerts, movies, and shows, with a large lawn for picnicking.  The Bean (also known as Cloud Gate) is a sightseeing hotspot. The Crown Fountain is a popular splash zone, with two large screens featuring diverse faces showering excited children with water. Lurie Garden is a wonderful 5-acre urban botanic garden with beautiful maze-like landscaping.

    Connected to Millennium Park via a pedestrian bridge is the 20-acre Maggie Daley Park. The facility features a children’s play area with interactive sculptures and a climbing wall, a mini golf course for those who want some fun without leaving downtown street level, picnic groves with perfect spots for families to sit down together, and an enchanted forest.  The skating ribbon is set for ice skating in the winter, but in the other seasons, it is open to roller skates and scooters as well. If you are visiting Chicago and didn’t bring your scooters…no worries.  MicroKickboard Scooters and helmets are available for rental for adults and kids of all ages. 

    Northerly Island Chicago

    Northerly Island Chicago is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the city and a wonderful outdoor park for kids and families. It is a 91-acre peninsula located in Lake Michigan, and it’s filled with lush green grasses, breathtaking views of the skyline, and plenty of wildlife. The Island is just beyond the museum campus. So, it is perfect as a stand-alone visit or combined with a stop at the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, or Adler Planetarium. 

    Promontory Point

    Just south of the Loop, Promontory Point can be accessed by foot via the Lakefront Trail or by car via the Museum Campus Drive. The Point offers plenty of activities for parents and children alike, including a picnic area, firepits, and tons of open space.  The view from the point over the lake covers both the tallest buildings downtown and south of the point. It’s also just north or the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry. 

    Ping Tom Park

    Ping Tom Park is a great place for parents to spend time with their kids in Chicago. This beautiful park overlooks the river with a perfect look towards the skyline down a beautiful red bridge.  Just steps from Chinatown, a visit to this park can pair with some Dim Sum and shopping.  Ping Tom Park is also a stop on the Chicago Water Taxi Route, so you can hop on the river and ride downtown to explore other parts of Chicago. 

    best outdoor parks to explore with kids in Chicagobest parks in Chicago for kids and families

    Best Chicago outdoor attractions for kids

    Lincoln Park Zoo

    Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is a great place for families to visit to get some fresh air, spend time outside, and see wildlife. Located near the lake, this zoo has a lot to offer, including over 1,000 animals from around the world. Plus, there’s free admission year-round! Kids will love seeing the gorillas, lions, tigers, and more up close. There are also plenty of interactives like the Nature Boardwalk and Education Center. Parents can enjoy the beautiful gardens, ponds, and even a cafe. 

    If you want to combine your visit with education, the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo blends expert animal care, interactive learning elements, and tactile experiences to teach kids about the interdependency of living things. This kid-friendly home for North American animals lets visitors get nose-to-nose with red wolves, black bears, river otters, and beavers.

    Navy Pier-Chicago

    Navy Pier is a must-see when you’re in Chicago! This lakefront is an iconic staple of Chicago and a playground that has something for everyone with its Ferris wheel, parks, shops, live music, and restaurants. The best part is that it’s all free! Kids can take a boat ride, go on a carousel, or explore the pier’s many attractions, including the Chicago Children’s Museum. 

    See a baseball game

    Take in some classic Chicago baseball at one of the city’s two beloved teams – The Cubs or White Sox. Whether you catch a game at Wrigley Field or Guaranteed Rate Field, your family will have a blast cheering on either team. And don’t forget to grab some classic Chicago-style baseball food like hot dogs, popcorn, or even a famous deep-dish pizza. 

    Chicago Riverwalk

    The Chicago Riverwalk is another fun place and hot spot for families. Whether you take a river tour, rent bikes to ride along the trails, or take the kids on a nature walk, there’s something for everyone at this fun location. Plus, the views of the city are stunning! 

    Fulton Market

    Fulton Market is an up-and-coming neighborhood with plenty to explore. Check out some of the area’s coolest restaurants, galleries, and shops. You may even find some street art or a fun activity for the kids. Plus, you’ll get to experience one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

    Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

    The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a natural history museum located in Lincoln Park and operated by the Chicago Academy of Sciences. The museum focuses on the natural history of the Chicago region, and connects children of all ages to nature and science through immersive exhibits, fun family events, important conservation research, and in-depth education programs,. It is also known for its live butterfly house, which is attached to a laboratory and program to study and enhance Chicago area butterfly populations.

    Best Chicago outdoor attractions for kids - beaches

    Best splash parks and beaches

    One of the best outdoor activities for kids in Chicago is water play! If you’re visiting Chicago in the summer, it can get hot! But no worries, the city is filled with fun ways to cool off and get wet! 

    Neighborhood splash pads

    One of the best things about the Chicago neighborhood playgrounds is that many of them have splash pads or other water features. If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly way to beat the heat this summer on land, then look no further than the splash pads at your local neighborhood park. Not only are they a great way to keep cool and have hours of outdoor time between splashing around and having fun on the playground. If you’re looking for something a little more, check out any of the fun water adventures below.

    Skokie Water Playground

    Just outside of Chicago, Skokie Water Playground includes five water slides of varying heights, making it an ideal destination for kids of any age. There are also interactive multi-level play areas with a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained. The large splashing water bucket is sure to be a hit among visitors, as well as the lanes for lap swim and the turf and suntan area. The facility also features a fully-accessible locker room with showers, lifeguard facilities, and a convenient concession stand. 

    Whealan Pool Aquatic Center

    Visit Whealan Pool Aquatic Center for a day of sun, sand, and fun in the pool. Kids can splash around in the shallow waters and explore the interactive water features. The diving boards provide plenty of thrills for adventurous swimmers, while parents can take a break from the heat in the cabanas or sit back and relax on the sandy beach. 

    Chicago Beaches

    Chicago’s beaches are legendary, and with good reason. The city is parked right on the shores of gorgeous Lake Michigan, so there is plenty of beach space to explore. Summer in Chicago is a perfect way to feel a bit beach town/ocean vibe in the midwest.  Some of the most popular beaches are listed below:

    • Montrose Beach- 4400 N. Lake Shore Dr
    • Loyola Beach-  1230 W. Greenleaf Ave. (@ Lake Michigan) 
    • Oak Street Beach- 1000 North Lake Shore Drive
    • 31st Street Beach- 3100 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive
    • North Ave Beach- 1601 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive

    exploring chicago by water taxi with kids

    On the move and outside in Chicago

    Bikes, boats, buses, and more! There are so many great ways to explore Chicago with kids, while outside having fun! Chicago is filled with fun and unique ways to get around, making just moving around from place to place an adventure for kids! Here are a few of our favorite outdoor ways to get around town! 

    Bike Lakefront Trail

    Chicago is known for its incredible public green spaces, and the Lakefront Trail provides a perfect opportunity to get outside and explore with your children. Just stretching from Hollywood Beach along the lake’s edge to Michigan Avenue’s Museum Campus, Bike Lakefront Trail offers beautiful views of the city skyline. The trail is 28 miles long, making it the ideal route for a leisurely family ride. From the different beaches, parks, and nature reserves dotted along it’s length, there is plenty to explore on your journey together. Along the way, you can stop off at one of the many playgrounds and green spaces where your kids will be sure to have fun. 

    Chicago Architectural Boat Tour

    Get a unique view of the city from the comfort of one of Chicago’s distinctive riverboats. These tours offer an expertly guided tour along the rivers, giving you and your family insight into the fascinating history and culture that makes Chicago so special. With stunning views of some of its most iconic buildings, this is a great way to engage your kids in the city’s rich architectural heritage. Make sure to bring your camera, as you are bound to have plenty of time to snap some great family photos! Older kids will get a lot out of these tours and learn quite a bit. But even little kids will enjoy being out on the water.

    Chicago Walking Tours

    Exploring the city on foot is a great way to bond with your family. Chicago Walking Tours offers many different themed tours, from cultural excursions through Chinatown and Little Italy to more offbeat tours like the Spooky Chicago Ghost Tour. Whether you’re looking for something educational or just want an entertaining adventure, there is sure to be a tour that fits your family’s needs. All of the tours are led by knowledgeable and friendly guides, who will make sure that you get the most out of your experience. With so much to offer, Chicago is a great destination for families looking to enjoy some quality time together while discovering something new.

    Chicago Water Taxi 

    This ferry service offers rides along the main branches of the Chicago River. The boat rides are perfect for taking in some of Chicago’s most famous landmarks, as well as enjoying the unique ecosystem of the river. The Water Taxi rides are just $6.00 for a one-way ticket, making it a great deal for a river view of the city. 

    Get a day pass for CTA and hop on and off the Red Line

    A day pass on the Redline is the best way to see all of the sights Chicago has to offer. With a day pass, you can hop on and off any train line or bus, going anywhere in the city, all day long! You could take the Red Line multiple times throughout the day and make your way across town with ease, never having to worry about parking or navigating through traffic. Whether it’s visiting iconic attractions like Wrigley Field, shopping along the Magnificent Mile, Chinatown, Hyde Park, or checking out any one of the many neighborhood restaurants and shops, the Red Line will get you there! 

    Best gardens and arboretums in Chicago - things to do in Chicago for kidsBest gardens and arboretums in Chicago - outdoor activities for kids

    Best gardens and arboretums in Chicago

    No trip to Chicago for a nature-lover would be complete without visiting one of the many amazing botanical gardens or arboretums that the city has to offer. Here are a few of the best gardens and arboretums in Chicago for kids: 

    Morton Arboretum

    Morton Arboretum, located in Lisle, Illinois, offers 1,700 acres of nature trails, gardens, and natural areas filled with over 4,000 varieties of trees and plants. The arboretum also hosts a variety of family activities throughout the year, including campfires, scavenger hunts, and children’s programs.  Around the winter holidays, they decorate the entire arboretum in lights and offer performances and hot cocoa for families. 

    Chicago Botanic Garden

    The Chicago Botanic boasts 27 different gardens spread over 385 acres of land and hosts all kinds of outdoor activities and special events such as summer concerts in the park, nature walks, and story times. Kids can also enjoy hands-on activities like learning about plant life or crafting their own creations at the Discovery Center. 

    Japanese Garden

    The Japanese Garden is located in Jackson Park. This tranquil oasis features traditional Japanese gardens, a tea house, pagodas, and koi fish ponds.  It’s an absolutely beautiful park and a lovely picturesque place for an outdoor stroll. 

    Cantigny Park

    Cantigny Park in Wheaton, Illinois, offers an array of activities for families, including hiking trails, gardens, and playgrounds. There’s also a museum on site that houses artifacts from the First World War, as well as interactive exhibits and special events throughout the year.  It is a bit of a drive from Chicago but well worth the trip 

    Garfield Park Conservatory

    Garfield Park Conservatory is a true oasis in the city. It is filled with lush tropical plants and flowers that give a taste of the exotic without ever leaving Chicago. There are plenty of interactive programs where kids can learn about different types of insects or the biology of flowers and plants. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, this Conservatory makes a perfect weather-proof outing.

    Urban outdoor adventures in Chicago

    There is no better way to explore Chicago than outside, with the whole family. With sprawling parks, amazing museums, lush gardens, cultural experiences, incredible food, unique architecture, and so much more! There are plenty of amazing outdoor activities for everyone in the family in Chicago. Get out and explore all that Chicago has to offer—you won’t be disappointed! 

    About the author

    A city girl through and through, Tiana wasn’t always thrilled with outdoor adventures. However, learning the importance of nature + play through her journey to a Master’s in Early Childhood Education changed her heart. She still prefers the hustle and bustle of city life, and alternates between Chicago and Austin. She also has learned to love all that nature is and gives. Tiana has discovered unbelievably amazing North American destinations by traveling in a DIY converted Sprinter Van with her husband and two kids. She looks forward to new adventures and discoveries every day. 

    You can find more from Tiana in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @usalongtheway
    RWMC Posts: Tiana Kubik

  • FARM, GOOD FOR NATURE, SUMMER, URBAN NATURE

    Exploring Farmers’ Markets with Kids

    A trip to your local farmer’s market is more than just a shopping excursion. Farmers’ markets are thriving locations where communities gather, full of interesting people and educational opportunities. Today, Creative Team member and Nevada mom of 2, Ashley Greenhalgh is highlighting how to explore a farmers’ market with your kids. Farmers’ markets are an important part of communities, where you can shop small, meet your local farmers, reduce your carbon footprint and learn to eat seasonally. There are so many benefits of farmers’ markets, let’s dig in! 

    Exploring a farmers' market with kids - tips and advice for parents

    Exploring a farmers’ market with kids

    Exploring a farmers’ market is an outdoor activity your whole family is sure to enjoy. Exploring farmers’ markets with kids can also help your community in a number of ways! Today, I’m excited to share this fun outing with you and cover the basics of what to expect, as well as some tips to enjoy farmers’ markets like a pro.  I hope that this post inspires you to get out with your kids and have some good ol’ family fun at your local farmers’ market (and make healthy food choices and meet new friends along the way!). 

    What is a farmers’ market?

    A farmers’ market is an open area where local farmers, makers, bakers, artists, and even musicians set up displays to sell their local goods and share their passions with the community. Each booth space at a local farmers’ market offers something a little different than the rest, making each market a totally unique experience. When you think of farmers’ markets, you may only think of rows upon rows of fruits and vegetables. And while that is definitely a highlight of any good farmers’ market, there is so much more than fruits and veggies to enjoy and explore!

    Farmer’s markets are made up of people who passionately grow their fruits and vegetables, bake their bread and pastries, paint their canvases, set up amazing displays, create their own products and work tirelessly to provide local healthy, delicious, beautiful options for you to purchase.

    There are usually free samples, free music, and other free or inexpensive options for you to enjoy, making farmers’ markets a fun (and inexpensive) place to hang out, make friends, discover new foods, and meet your community. 

    visiting a farmers' market with kids

    Farmers’ markets are good for you (and everyone else)

    Did you know that farmer’s markets are GREAT for our local economies, our health, and the environment?! 

    Purchasing local food is good for the environment. For example, consider the difference between buying peaches from a farm 20 miles from your home versus a farm 400 miles away. Think of the labor, drive time, packaging, processing, and emissions that are saved when the transportation time is reduced. Now multiply that by say 40 vendors at a local farmers market. It is pretty easy to see that shopping local is a great way to help the environment. 

    Shopping local is also beneficial to your own community and neighborhood. When you purchase food, goods, or services from a local vendor, more of that money stays in your community and area. Your local economy can flourish if everyone seeks out more local options and shops small. 

    kids at the farmers market

    Making connections at the market

    The farmers, artists, master gardeners, makers, craftsmen, and entertainers at local farmer’s markets are some of the most hardworking, kind people you will meet. A farmers’ market is a great place to meet genuine and interesting people. The vendors are usually very passionate about the products they produce and the food they grow/harvest. You’ll find that they’re often very willing to talk to you (and especially your kids) about their processes, experiences, and backgrounds. They may even offer you a tour of their farm, a demonstration, or a free sample. The setting is perfect for children to meet and interact with a wide variety of interesting and passionate adults, as well as others their age. Exploring farmer’s markets with your kids is a simple and fun way for them to make community connections and meet new friends. 

    For more information on how to meet farmers and/or get information on local farms in your area, check out this post on teaching kids about where food comes from.

    exploring a farmer's market with kidsfarmers market for kids

    New foods, new recipes 

    Farmers’ markets are some of the best places to take your kids to get them more interested in new foods and recipes. There’s such a huge variety of foods at local farmers’ markets, in addition to fresh fruits and vegetables. There are usually meats and cheeses, sausages and eggs, local honey (great for allergies) and salsa, baked goods and jams (and so much more). If your kids are not familiar with the fruits/vegetables available, purchase a few different options to take home and try. Chances are, even if they weren’t huge fans of the vegetable before (or didn’t know anything about it), they will be once they taste fresh produce they picked out and learned about.

    Including kids in the act of choosing new vegetables, new fruits, or a new herb can get them excited to try something different! Let your child pick out a seasonal fruit or an exotic fruit to try when you get home. It’s like a treat or a reward that they helped pick out. And there are so many different colors and textures of foods for them to experience at a farmer’s market. You’re sure to find something delicious even for the pickiest of eaters. You might even discover something delicious enough that you choose to plant it in your own vegetable garden next year! 

    Most of the vendors at our local farmers’ market have free samples to try, as well. It is so much fun for kids to try yellow watermelon, pluots, and lemon cucumbers to name a few. Many vendors also will suggest a simple recipe for a vegetable, herb, or fruit that isn’t well known. Your children will love choosing something new to try at home! 

    kids farmers market - lessons learned (making change and social skills)

    Healthy options for less

    Since local produce doesn’t have the high transportation costs that are associated with lots of big-box grocery store chains, many of the healthy foods you will find are less expensive than at a grocery store. Not to mention food that hasn’t been shipped hundreds of miles, is fresher (so it tastes better), and has way less plastic wrapping and packaging! These are all benefits of shopping local and small, which also help reduce your carbon footprint. 

    Did you know that most of the fruits and vegetables you’ll find at grocery stores are picked prior to being ripe so that they are hard and don’t get damaged during transport? The local fruits and vegetables at a farmer’s market are often picked within 24 hours of you seeing them! They’re fresh, delicious, and more nutritious than what you’ll usually find at a big grocery store. 

    benefits of taking kids to a local farmers' market

    Farmers’ markets affordably

    The SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides monthly benefits to millions of low-income families across the country to purchase food and beverages. Starting in 2017, families have been able to use their EBT cards to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from their local farmer’s markets. Click the link to learn about SNAP at farmers’ markets.

    Another amazing program increasing accessibility to low-income seniors is the SFMNP (Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program). This program is “designed to provide low-income seniors with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs.” Click the link to learn more about the SFMNP program.

    Making farmers' markets affordable and accessible

    Availability of farmers’ markets 

    Depending on the weather in your area, markets may be open year-round or seasonally. Some markets are open once or twice per week, or a couple of times per month. There are daily markets and weekly markets. There are morning, afternoon, or evening markets. Be sure to check out the hours, days, and seasons your local farmers’ market is open. 

    We have found that evening markets many times have food trucks and music, so it makes for a fun, easy evening outdoors where we can enjoy someone else’s cooking! Morning markets are filled with fresh produce and baked goods. This makes an enjoyable morning tasting fresh fruits, enjoying breakfast, buying local produce, and connecting with our community members. Honestly, there’s no bad time of day to visit the farmers’ market. 

    To find local farmers’ markets, a simple internet search with your area and the words “farmers’ markets.” (Northern California farmers’ markets or St. Louis farmers’ markets, for example). This will provide a local website or list of options in your area. 

    Many of the farmers’ markets that operate twice per week, for example, do so for variety. A market may feature fruits and vegetables on a weekday, and arts/ crafts on a Saturday. This provides variety for customers and keeps things interesting. 

    eats and treats at local farmers markets - exploring with kids

    Power of Produce

    The Power of Produce (POP) Club is an organization for kids hosted by the Farmers Market Coalition (FMC) which provides a set of over 50 tools, guides and templates to help communities engage younger customers in the farmers market experience through POP Club. The club provides a fun opportunity for children to engage in the local food system through conversations directly with farmers, educational games and demonstrations, and exposure to new fruits and vegetables. In addition to participating in educational activities, POP Club kids receive vouchers to spend at the market, allowing them to make their own shopping decisions at the market. For more information, check out their website. 

    Other benefits of farmers’ markets 

    Besides being great for your community, environment, and health there are a few other benefits to exploring farmers’ markets with kids! 

    Farmers’ markets are a great low-stress environment for them to learn about money and work on social/communication skills. If your kids have some money saved, they can work on talking with vendors, asking questions, adding up items, weighing/measuring, counting money, and calculating change. There are so many great skills that kids can develop from the simple act of shopping! It is a fun, interactive way for them to learn some math and money skills!

    yoga classes at farmers' market

    More than just food

    There are so many other fun, outdoor activities you can find at many farmers’ markets, in addition to fresh produce. We’ve experienced everything from live music at open-air concerts, to cooking demonstrations, a petting zoo, plant displays, pumpkin patches, fresh-cut flowers (make your own bouquet stations), yoga classes, story time (from local authors), and art demonstrations. Many of these activities are free, inexpensive, or merely ask for a small donation. We once found an art bus where the girls could tie-dye a small reusable bag for $5. They had a blast interacting with the small business owner and making something they can use again and again. 

    Bring your furry friends!

    A fun added bonus: you can usually bring your furry friends to the farmers’ market! Since most farmers’ markets are outdoors, many allow dogs on leashes. Kids and dogs are a great combination and can be an icebreaker for your children to meet and interact with others. Exploring farmers’ markets with kids is a great way to bond with them and others, get some exercise, support your community, and help the environment. Is there anything better than that? 

    bring your dog to the farmers' market

    Helpful tips for visiting a farmers’ market with kids

    • Think ahead of time what you’re looking for at a farmers’ market. If you’re looking for the freshest produce, fruits and vegetables, hitting up the farmers’ markets early in the morning is your best chance of getting the most variety. 
    • If you’re going to an evening market where there are food trucks and music, it is nice to have a blanket to sit on the grass. 
    • Bring a basket or reusable bags to carry your produce. Most places do not have bags or boxes, so try to remember to bring your own. This also cuts down on plastic waste.
    • Carry some cash. While many vendors accept cards, some may not. Plus, it makes it faster and easier to pay with cash when you’re browsing and trying to purchase a few small things from various vendors. 
    • Bring a reusable water bottle ~ many markets will have refilling stations for bottles, but not cups. In addition, many markets are during the heat of a sunny day so it is nice to have some cold water on hand. 

    Exploring a farmers' market with kids

    Have you ever explored a farmers’ market with your kids?

    About the author

    Ashley is a nature-loving mother of two who is passionate about outdoor education for parents and their children. Ashley grew up in Alaska, where her family spent most of their time outdoors fishing, camping, skiing, and hiking. She currently lives with her husband and children near the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe, where they can be found outdoors year-round; hiking, backpacking, biking, skiing, and camping. She is also very passionate about photography and owns a small photography business.

    You can find more from Ashley in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @sage.and.summit
    Website: Sage & Summit Photography
    RWMC posts: Ashley Greenhalgh

  • GEOCACHING, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PRINTABLES, SPRING, URBAN NATURE

    10 Outdoor Social Distancing Activities for Kids in a City

    With social distancing firmly in place and schools being closed for the foreseeable future, parents all across the country are trying to figure out what to do with your kids. While it’s probably no surprise to anyone reading this website, we HIGHLY recommend getting outside and into nature with your kids. But only if that’s a safe and viable option. If you have access to the great outdoors and time to spend, by all means, we hope you take advantage of it.

    However, outdoor social distancing may not be easy for everyone. Particularly those who live in a city and may not have close access to wide open (and remote/unpopulated areas). However, there are still things you can do outside as a family that keep your distance from others and give your kids the chance to burn off some of that energy. Today, we have Desirée Macke, Southern California mom of 2 here sharing 10 ways to get outside while being socially distant in a city.

    10 Ways to Get Outside With Kids When Social Distancing in the City

    An unexpected turn of events

    This spring was supposed to be full of travel and adventure for our family. However, in the blink of an eye, like the rest of the country, our plans were quickly thwarted due to COVID-19. When schools were canceled for multiple weeks I quickly went to work planning where we could go exploring with the kids. Joshua Tree National Park immediately popped into mind. It’s one of our favorite places. I had full intentions of loading the kids up to go rock climbing to get away from it all. Then, things regarding health and safety escalated and our plans were set aside.

    Social distancing in a city

    For a moment I went into panic mode. How in the world were we going to get the kids outside while social distancing in a huge city? All the places we enjoy going (National Parks, the beach, local parks, etc.) are always full of people. It’s not like we can simply turn to our backyard…we don’t have one! We live in a townhome. Right now, for many people in urban areas, getting outside while being safe can be a bit challenging, particularly because we all like to go outside to the same places.

    I took a deep breath, looked at what we do have at our disposal. I put together a list of 10 outdoor social distancing activities for kids and families in cities so that you can still get outside all while staying safe and active.

    geocaching in the city - outdoor activities for kids

    1. Geocaching

    A while back we covered the basics of geocaching. Our kids don’t get much screen time, so geocaching is really fun and exciting for my kids.  When I hand over the phone to my son so he can follow the map, read the clues, and search for geocaches, it’s a really big deal. We’ve found several caches in our neighborhood while out for a walk. There are many more near us that we’ll be hunting down in the next few weeks. We’ll have plenty of time to do so!

    2. Agents of Discovery app

    This may be pretty specific to Southern California, but, there are a LOT of people here, so I hope I’m reaching someone who is searching for things to do with kids! While visiting a local nature center/trail we enjoy hiking, we discovered there is an interactive app that is great for kids to utilize while hiking. Along the trail, there are multiple challenges the kids complete to earn points.

    I’ll be the first to admit that sometimes my kids lose interest in our hikes very quickly. However, this app keeps my kids engaged while on the trail. Bonus points: the whole family learned a copious amount of information on the flora and fauna in our area. Now my son wants to visit all the trails included on the app. It’s beeen a great outdoor social distancing activity for my kids to keep them active and entertained.

    During this time, please use your best judgment on whether being out on the trials is smart and safe for you, and those you may encounter on the trail.

    outdoor apps for city kids

    3. iNaturalist app

    I promise this is the last tech/screen suggestion. But, this is one of my favorite apps because it can be used anywhere! Since we’re stuck around the house, we’ve been taking many walks around our neighborhood. I’ve learned over the years that the kids need a goal on our walks to keep them occupied and entertained. Otherwise just walking around can get pretty boring for them.

    During our walks, I ask them to find plants, flowers, even animals, that they don’t know the names of. We then turn to iNaturalist, snap a photo of said plant/animal. The app then pulls up a list of items that are likely to be what we have discovered, and we select the answer that best fits what we have found. It’s been really neat to learn together what we have right here in our little neighborhood. Using an app like this to learn and document our adventures has been a really fun and educational outdoor social distancing activity for the kids.

    4. Scavenger hunt

    Anyone can do a scavenger hunt! Anywhere! Trust me, they’re super easy to put together and really fun for the kids! It only takes a few minutes of planning. I usually compile a quick list of easy-to-find items just before we head out the door. You can write them all down on a piece of paper, in your phone or keep a tally in your head. Tell the kids what they’re looking for and let them explore! Once the kids find all the items on their list they earn a prize (which is usually just something from our pantry).

    The great thing about scavenger hunts is that you can completely customize them to your specific location and to your children’s ages and skill level. I will often make two different lists. For my son, I’ll ask for specific things, such as, “find a maple leaf”.  For my youngest, I keep it pretty basic for her, “find a yellow leaf”.

    blank BINGO card for nature hunt outdoor activities for kids

    5. Nature bingo

    Much like the scavenger hunt and iNaturalist, we utilize nature bingo while we’re on our morning walks. This is a great and easy outdoor social distancing activity for kids. Each child has a BINGO card filled with plants, flowers, and animals we typically see in our neighborhood. The game is a great way to keep the kids moving along our sidewalks with little to no complaining, and a goal to reach. They get pretty excited when they hit a BINGO, and I get excited that we’ve clocked more hours outside.

    Above is a blank Bingo printable you can print off and fill in as you go.

    Outdoor activities for city kids when socially distancing

    6. DIY sidewalk chalk paint

    You’ve probably seen this fun and easy craft idea, but it’s worth repeating because the kids love it. I’m not sure what they enjoy more, the making of the paint, or the actual painting. Either way, it keeps them busy, entertained, and outside.

    Here’s what you’ll need to make your own sidewalk chalk paint:

    • 1 cup warm water
    • 1 cup corn starch
    • Food dye colors of your choice
    • Muffin tin
    • Mixing bowl
    • Whisk
    • Paintbrushes

    In your mixing bowl add the warm water and corn starch. Whisk until cornstarch is dissolved. Pour your mixture in equal parts into the muffin tin. Add food dyes. Let the kids grab a paintbrush and go to work!

    We are fortunate to have a patio, so the kids generally head out there to paint the pavers. But if we’re feeling extra adventurous we’ll paint the sidewalks around our front door.

    7. Obstacle courses

    We are lucky to have an alley that serves as our makeshift back yard. When the kids get tired of just riding up and down the alley on their bikes/scooters/etc. we’ll make an obstacle course. Getting the kids in on the creation of the course makes it that much more fun. Seeing their minds work to put together their course is just as much fun as watching them navigate the course. We use whatever we can find in our garage: jump ropes, plyo boxes, sidewalk chalk for the start and finish line, anything we can pull out!

    I know not everyone has an alley, but many obstacle courses can be created in parks that have large green space! Think cones and hula hoops! Again, please use discretion during this time when visiting your parks.

    outdoor activities when you don't have a backyard

    8. Slackline

    We may not have a yard or huge trees. However, we DO have a garage. That space has been maximized to the fullest. We purchased the kids a slackline and have it set up in the garage! We have it hung high, with different ropes and rings hanging from the line. The kids like to pretend they are Ninja Warriors, and monkey across it, aiming for the best time, or simply making it across without falling. If you don’t have a garage, check out parks with open spaces and large trees. It’s been a fun alternative to the monkey bars and traditional playground equipment we’re used to, but trying to avoid.

    outdoor activities to do while socially distancing

    9. Leaf confetti

    We mentioned making leaf confetti in our 100+ Outdoor Winter Activities for Kids,  but it is worth mentioning here, and applies any time of the year! And, this project has been our saving grace on those afternoons where we’re starting to get the wiggles and need an activity. This one engages our gross motor skills (walking around our neighborhood), fine motor skills (paper punching), and eye-hand coordination.

    As we walk around our neighborhood the kids collect leaves they deem worthy of paper punching. Once we’ve gathered a hefty amount, we head home and start punching away. The different shaped punchers give the confetti a little more of a whimsical feel, but any shape will do. After a large amount of confetti is made the most fun is tossing it in the air!

    Outdoor social distancing ideas for kids

    10. Puddle jumping

    More often than not, my kids are in school when it rains, so many puddle opportunities have slipped by us. However, during our time social distancing, we have had several days where it has rained. We could view this as doomy and gloomy. But, instead, we have taken advantage of all the puddles! All we need our rainboots and rain jackets, and we go. to. town. on every puddle we find. The kids always have so much fun splashing away, and this activity is perfect to get outside, as most people opt to stay indoors when it rains.

    During this incredibly crazy and uncertain time, one thing holds true. We all need to get outside for our health and sanity.

    If you live in an urban area, what are some of your favorite outdoor social distancing activities for kids?

    About the author

    I’m Desirée; wife to Scott, mom to Marcus and Julia. I’m the domestic engineer (that’s my fancy term for stay-at-home-mom) of the family. My husband, kids, and I love the outdoors. Our favorite ways to explore are hiking the coastal trails near us as well as combing the tide pools for aquatic treasures. To quench our thirst for wide-open spaces beyond the hustle and bustle of our urban jungle. We love to visit state and national parks, as well as conservation areas and nature preserves.

    You can find Desirée online in the following locations:
    Personal IG: @desireemacke
    Cookie Biz IG: @coolingrackconfections