West Seattle is truly a gem. We moved here a year ago and instantly fell in love with the community. [I wish I could say we heavily researched & intentionally chose West Seattle because of its awesomeness, but truthfully it was just a happy accident & I’m not that cool]. However we ended up here, it’s been a blast exploring the area. I invite you to take the quick drive over the bridge & explore for yourself. Here are a list of my favorite activities in West Seattle!
With the gorgeous weather we have had the last few weeks, it makes sense to start with the outdoor fun.
- Alki Beach [all ages]. Regardless of where you live in Seattle, you’ve probably heard of Alki Beach. In the summer, you’ll think you’ve stumbled onto a beach in Southern California [except if you’re brave enough to test the water, you’ll see that’s not true]. But you don’t need to swim to have fun here. There are public bonfire pits, miles of sand & an occasional seal pup sighting to keep your kids entertained. Not enough? Swing by Whale Tail park, just around the corner, for swing sets & slides.
Miss Freddy’s tip: visit during a weekday to avoid the parking congestion. - Explore Tidepools [all ages]. Just south of Alki Beach is a much quieter shoreline, offering a very different experience. If you explore the rocky shore during low tide, you will meet all kinds of marine life in the tidepools. Our favorite location is the Charles Richey Sr Viewpoint.
Miss Freddy’s tip: check the tide table to time your visit just right. - Lincoln Park [all ages]. Not only does Lincoln Park offer miles of walking paths through forest & along shoreline, it is home to an amazing playground, an outdoor pool & a free wading pool.
Miss Freddy’s tip: don’t be afraid to consult the park map… it’s a huge place & easy to get lost. - Ercolini Park [toddlers & young children]. This park is a West Seattle favorite. It’s different from other parks because it has a large selection of push & riding toys. It’s almost like being invited over to your really-spoiled-neighbor-kid’s house to play with all the fun toys in their garage.
Miss Freddy’s tip: pack some sunscreen because there’s not a lot of tree cover.
- Stroller Strides [babies & toddlers]. Their slogan “fitness for mom, fun for baby” explains it all. Stroller Strides® is a total fitness program that moms can do with their babies. Instructors weave songs and activities into the routine designed to entertain and engage baby, while moms are led through a series of exercises. My favorite part? They workout at Alki Beach during the summer!
Miss Freddy’s tip: try a FREE introductory class!
And, for a rainy day (in Seattle? never.) try one of these fabulous indoor activities!
- The Little Gym [up to age 12]. The Little Gym is a motor skill development/gymnastics program for ages 4 months-12 years old. They use age-appropriate gym equipment and activities to develop motor skills, social skills and cognitive skills in a non-competitive, loving, no pressure environment. Anyone can try a FREE INTRODUCTORY CLASS!
Miss Freddy’s tip: Call ahead to reserve your spot- there’s often a waiting list for new participants.
- West Seattle Art Nest [all ages]. This place is genius. An art studio that caters to kids through open studio time, art camps, after school classes, or [our personal favorite] A SPLATTER ROOM! Your child will be led through a fun, age-appropriate art project and you don’t have to clean up a thing!
Miss Freddy’s tip: Don’t miss Parents Night Out- drop the kids off and enjoy a date night!
- Chaco Canyon Organic Cafe [toddlers]. The perfect place to enjoy coffee and a delicious lunch (or any meal) with your mom friends. A play area will keep the kids occupied while you watch from the “mom bar.”
Miss Freddy’s tip: plan to buy a treat for your toddler as well- their snacks & juices are all vegan, organic and delicious! - Library Story Time [up to age 5]. There are multiple libraries within West Seattle which offer different story times for various ages. Check out the Seattle Public Library website for the most current schedule.
Miss Freddy’s tip: we personally love the Southwest branch’s Baby & Toddler story times! Plan to stay after class to get to know other moms & kiddos. - Toddler Gym [up to age 5]. For only $3, you can let your child run wild for hours. The toddler gym is offered at Delridge, Hiawatha, High Point & South Park locations [in West Seattle] along with various locations throughout Seattle.
Miss Freddy’s tip: While there are many, many different types of toys available, the toddler gym is most fun for kids that are walking.
Disclaimer: This article was written by Miss Freddy and appeared first on the Seattle Local Mom Blog.
