8 Supercool Tree Houses, Forts and Hobbit Houses Around Seattle to Explore With Kids

Location: 4450 Blakely Ave N.E., Bainbridge Island

Parking: IslandWood has a parking lot near the entrance.

Reasons to visit IslandWood abound. This unique 255-acre outdoor learning center on Bainbridge Island offers three fantastic options for kid explorers, along with 6 miles of wooded trails and an amazing garden.

One exciting feature for kids is the 150-foot-tall forest canopy tower, a rebuilt fire tower. Formerly situated in the North Cascades, it now sits on the edge of IslandWood’s ravine. At the top, the view is spectacular, with sightlines to Puget Sound and the mountains. (Note: This spot probably would not suit those who are afraid of heights.)

In addition, IslandWood’s grounds include two tree houses, the Bog Tree House and the Learning Tree House. The Learning Tree House appears more modern; the Bog Tree House looks more magical, as if elves or fairies might live there.

It’s important to note that you can only visit IslandWood during public events, and those fill up quickly. Keep their events calendar on your radar — and note that the events listed as “adult-friendly” but not including the term “kid-friendly,” such as a public site tour, are designed for adults only. Instead, look for “Afternoon on the Trails” or other events marked as “kid-friendly” and be sure to RSVP early. Pets are not allowed at IslandWood.

Nearby things to do: Cross the 190-foot suspension bridge 60 feet above Mac’s Creek and see a giant Douglas fir beam, 92 feet long and weighing almost 9,000 pounds, built into the truss system of IslandWood’s Welcome Center.

Next stop: Tree house tower