Best Seattle-Area Outings With Preschoolers and Toddlers

When my older child started school, she left her little brother without his favorite playmate. So while big sister is learning in the classroom, he and I still go on all our adventures, but it’s just the two of us, unless we meet up with friends.

However, we are now beholden to the school-day schedule. Wherever our outings lead us, we always need to be home by the bell. For many area elementary schools, that’s around 2:30 p.m., so we have to plan carefully.

That’s why I’ve cooked up a variety of different adventures we call “big kids away, tots will play.” These outings perfectly suit the preschool and toddler set, fit nicely within the school day and land us back home in time for school pickup. Simply jump to the activity that sounds exciting to you using the list below: 

• Climb high
• Meet cute critters
• Play indoors
• Garden exploration
• Boardwalk stroll
• Tots on wheels
• Set sail

First up: Climb high

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in 2021 and was most recently update and fact-checked in August 2024 by ParentMap’s associate editor, Kari Hanson.