Best Seattle-Area Outings With Preschoolers and Toddlers

Nothing beats the look of awe and wonder on a toddler’s face when they get to interact with an animal up close. We love heading out to meet new furry, feathery and scaly friends around town.

Woodland Park Zoo is a favorite neighborhood haunt of ours. On rainy days, we move between airy covered spaces, the picnic shelter near the carousel and the otter habitat. Cougar Mountain Zoo is known for its caring staff and up-close animal encounters — look out for the sloths and prehensile-tailed porcupine in the recently opened Rainforest Discovery Education Center. South Sound destination Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium features a new coral reef exhibit, fantastic touch tanks with tropical creatures and a wonderful nature-themed tot play area that’s tons of fun.

For a low-key (and free!) farm visit, check out The Produce Market at Flower World in Snohomish. Goats and sheep often wander close enough to the fence for a pat, and kids can go inside the bird enclosure to see ducks, geese and peacocks. Pick up a snack at the farm stand and meander across the street to Flower World to walk through the gardens. Farrel-McWhirter Park on the Eastside is another place to meet farm animals, as is Kelsey Creek Farm.

Watching our local salmon migrate back to their home waters is a fall tradition for our family. We especially love the fish ladder at the Ballard Locks for its ease and accessibility, and there’s the bonus of watching the boats pass through the locks. When we need a little more time in nature, spying spawning salmon provides great entertainment while we snack alongside a nearby river or creek.

Next up: Play indoors