How to Enjoy the Outdoors as a Family, Where to go

Exploring the outdoors as a family can be a great bonding experience. But where should you go?

We are continuing the series: How to Enjoy the Outdoors as a Family. We have already discussed what to wear and what to bring on your outdoor adventure. Now, I would like to share a few simple and fun outdoor activities to do with your kiddos at home as well as some great outdoor locations to visit. Still to come, we will share creative ways to make your adventures fun for the entire family and start our outdoor challenge. I am so excited!

When it comes to outdoor adventures with kiddos there can be a lot of time and planning involved.

Sometimes it is just not in the cards to load everyone up and drive to a destination. Luckily, there is plenty of fun to be had in your own backyard.

Let’s say that you are able to get everyone loaded up and ready for an adventure, where should you go? Here are a few ideas.

The Park

Every one can find something fun to do at the park. It can be a great place for munchkins to get their wiggles out. Picnics in the park can be a lovely change of pace. A visit to a local park is also a nice option if you live in the city.

The Beach

If you have been following us on Instagram then you know that the beach is one of our favorite places! It is a great location for both relaxation and fun. You can build sand castles, go on beach walks, swim in the ocean (if it is warm enough), have a bonfire, fly a kite, or go fishing. These are just a few of the fun things you can do at the beach. If you are lucky enough to live near the ocean, take advantage of it.

The Mountains

Depending on where you live, visiting a mountain range can be a blast. In the winter you can go sledding, inter tubing, snow shoeing, snow hiking, skiing and snowboarding. In the warmer months the mountain ranges can provide a beautiful setting for hiking.

A River or Lake

Here in Oregon we have quite a few rivers and lakes that include great parks. You can enjoy a nice hike, have a BBQ or a picnic and then finish it off with a swim.

The Zoo

There is not much that needs to be said about the Zoo. It can be both fun an educational for the entire family. If you plan to visit a few times a year look into what membership passes they have to offer. It may save you money in the long run.

A Garden

Gardens can be a wonderful place to explore. In the Portland area we are lucky to have many beautiful gardens to visit, here are a few of our favorites. If you do not live in an area with a garden it can be fun to visit a garden center. Smelling the flowers can be fun for the little ones and older children can learn about and identify the plants.

A Farmers market

This can be a fun way to get outside and get to know and support your local farms and businesses.

A Local Farm

A trip to a local farm is something different that would be both fun and educational. There are some farms that allow groups to visit on a field trips. You could ask around if there are any in your area while at the local Farmers Market.

Go Pick fruit

This can be a fun and delicious way to spend the afternoon. There are many u-pick fruit farms out there to chose from. This is another thing to check into at the Farmers Market.

State Parks

State Parks can be a great place to go hiking and exploring. To find a state park, national park and more near you, visit stateparks.com. Make sure you check to see if you need to purchase a parking pass before visiting.

A Nature Center

Nature Centers can be a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Many have well kept trails and visitor centers to enjoy. Find a Nature Center near you.

Go Camping

This outdoor activity is a great way to get out of the house, unplug, explore and bond. There are endless options when it comes to camping locations. Our family has not done camping yet. This is one of our outdoor goals for this year.

Don’t miss the rest of the How to Enjoy the Outdoors as a Family Series:

What to BringWhat to Wear9 Creative Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors as a Family

What are some of your favorite outdoor locations to visit? We are always looking for new ideas.