SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego has long been a San Diego landmark, and for good reason. Every time we visit, we're amazed anew at how much the park offers and how enjoyable a day it provides. I don't know why we're surprised! We've been taking our kids almost annually since they were babies, and every year, there's something for everyone. We love the relaxed feel of the park, focused so much more on marine … [Read more...]

Mystic Aquarium

This stop was submitted by Karin Burgess of Mystic Country. Thank you, Karin, for your support of Pit Stops for Kids! If you find yourself in Mystic, Connecticut (perhaps to tour the Mystic Seaport), the Mystic Aquarium, located nearby, is a must-see attraction for families! Within the aquarium, you'll find a marine theater show, a 3-D theater, and extensive exhibits on everything from the … [Read more...]

Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo

3411 Sherman Blvd. Fort Wayne, Indiana Rated one of the top ten zoos in the country by Parents magazine, Fort Wayne Children's Zoo is a must-see family attraction in the greater Fort Wayne area. What's to love? The 40 acres of exhibits (well-suited for small legs!), the 1500 animals to view, the ongoing educational programs and conservation efforts of the park, and rides like the SkyFari and … [Read more...]

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium

5400 N. Pearl St. Tacoma, Washington If you're looking for a zoo that's easy to access off the freeway but rivals the big names, stop at Tacoma's Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. Exhibits and sections include an Asian forest, marine discovery center, aquarium, polar exhibit, and red wolf sanctuary. The newly added Kid Zone is a great place to let kids run around and explore. From the … [Read more...]

The Petersen Urban Wildlife Refuge

1400 Delmarva Lane Wilmington, DE The Russell W. Petersen Urban Wildlife Refuge is 212 acres of protected urban wetland along the Christina River just outside downtown Wilmington. Reviewer Mara of The Mother of All Trips writes, "The place is a fascinating intersection of the industrial and the natural. Freight trains thunder over a sculptural bridge that spans the river. To the north, the … [Read more...]

Riverbanks’ ‘Boo at the Zoo’

500 Wildlife Parkway Columbia, SC Ready for a scare? (Or more likely, lots of laughs?) If you're in the Columbia area of South Carolina, you won't want to miss Riverbanks Zoo and Garden's Boo at the Zoo. Always a great pitstop for families, Riverbanks is throwing a party all next week! From the official website: The family-friendly Halloween event runs from 6 to 9pm each evening. Children … [Read more...]

Olympic Game Farm

1423 Ward Road Sequim, WA The Olympic Game Farm is a great place to get face-to-face with a wide range of exotic animals…while never leaving the greater Seattle area! From the official website: “A family run business, Olympic Game Farm is home to many animal species, both endangered and non-endangered. Many of our animals are veterans of the silver screen. For more than 28 years, the … [Read more...]

Oregon Coast Aquarium

2820 SE Ferry Slip Road Newport, Oregon The Oregon Coast Aquarium is a local gem of northwestern Oregon. Due to it's manageable size (you can get through it in 1-2 hours), it serves well as a pitstop along US Highway 101. Admission is a little steep at $14.95 per adult and $9.45 for kids 3-12, but the aquarium is on par with the best, despite its size. The aquarium houses six main exhibits, … [Read more...]