Phew, we finally made it to 2021 — good riddance, 2020! Of course, life is not back to normal yet, and getting out and about continues to look different. However, we’re focusing on fun and just keeping the faith that this mess will all be over soon. January beckons with romps in the snow, last-chance holiday outings, cozy indoor fun, meaningful ways to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and more! Happy New Year!
Book a splurge-worthy encounter with Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium’s groovy goats! Your private family group will get to meet, groom and feed these sweet four-legged friends — and tour the rest of the zoo as well. 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. time slots most days; book online.
Take advantage of the last few days of the year to hunt for wooden snow people and deer at Bloedel Reserve’s Winter in the Woods event. Located on Bainbridge Island, this beautiful public garden is worth the trip! Through Jan. 3, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. $6–$17; ages 4 and younger free.
Light up your winter nights viewing one or more of the most epic light displays of the season. Whether you’re on foot in the fresh air or enjoying the mobile vantage point of your warm and snug car, there is a light display to dazzle your crew.
Who would have thought biking could be a winter-weather sport? Introducing fat bikes! With extra-big tires perfect for gaining traction on slippery and soft surfaces, you can blaze the trails even in the snowiest of conditions. Check out our guide to this “fat-tastic” winter sport for families.
Honor the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with Seattle MLK Jr. Organizing Coalition events: workshops Jan. 12–16; youth event Sunday, Jan. 17; and a rally and march on Monday, Jan. 18. Check online for specific event times. Free.
Head into the wilds for free on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, Jan. 18, when entrance fees to national parks are waived and no Discover Pass is required to park at Washington state parks.
Plan a splurge-worthy wintry excursion like no other. Dash through the snow in a horse-drawn sleigh or book a bucket-list dogsled adventure for your fam.
Don’t scratch off a day with rain in its forecast. Pack a towel and check out these playgrounds and parks that are ideal for a drizzly day.
Slide your way into fun with a sledding day trip in the mountains! Double-check each area’s operating status before you head out for a screaming good time at these totally tubular area sledding spots.
Have a splashing good time during a recreation swim session at the Covington Community Pool. Time and dates vary, book in advance online. $5 per person.
It may not be the season to plant a garden, but there is nothing stopping you from visiting one. Head to one of these secret gardens in the Seattle area for some place new to explore.
As much as getting out and about seems like the most exciting and necessary thing to do these days, staying warm and comfy at home can be entertaining, too. To make the most of your family time at home, tuck into these ideas for cozy fun at home with the kids.
You might not be ready for preschool, but your toddler probably is. Join ParentMap’s virtual Preschool Preview event to find the best options for your blossoming little one. Plus, get the inside scoop on how to raise the happiest kid on the block from world-renowned pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp. Saturday, Jan. 23, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Free; preregister.
Mark a much-needed change of scenery on your calendar by booking a winter or spring staycation. Our planner has lots of ideas and inspiration.
