Things to do with kids in Salinas

Planning family activities in Salinas can feel tough if you don’t know where to start. The city offers many children’s attractions, outdoor recreation spots, and educational experiences perfect for all ages.

This guide shares top things to do with kids in Salinas such as playgrounds, nature parks, animal encounters, cultural sites, and community events. Discover plenty of fun ideas your whole family will enjoy!

Key Takeaways

• Salinas offers many family attractions, like the National Steinbeck Center and Tatum’s Garden playground. These places have interactive exhibits, art, and outdoor fun for kids of all ages.
• Outdoor adventures are popular. Families can hike in Toro County Park’s 4,000 acres or try horseback riding at Monterey Bay Equestrian Center. Scavenger hunts happen in both Salinas and Monterey.
• Animal encounters are easy to find. The Farm lets children feed goats and chickens while learning about their care. The Monterey Zoo has hands-on exhibits teaching kids about wildlife conservation.
• Cultural spots include the Salinas Railroad Museum with vintage train displays and The Western Stage Theater with kid-friendly shows. Both offer educational programs for young visitors.
• Community events run year-round, such as the Santa Cruz Shakespeare Festival every summer and local Battle of the Bands fundraisers. Kids Yoga classes and farm playdates also give families fun ways to bond nearby.

Top Family-Friendly Activities in Salinas

Salinas offers many exciting activities for families. You can explore museums, parks, and animal encounters that will entertain and educate your kids.

Visiting the National Steinbeck Center

The National Steinbeck Center offers a fun and educational experience for families. Kids can explore the life and works of author John Steinbeck, famous for books like “The Grapes of Wrath.” Interactive exhibits engage young visitors and help them understand his stories better.

Parents will appreciate the center’s family-friendly programs. The venue hosts events that celebrate literature through art, theater, and storytelling. This makes it one of the top children’s attractions in Salinas.

Kids will leave with a greater appreciation for reading while enjoying their visit.

At the National Steinbeck Center, every story comes to life.

Exploring Toro County Park

After enjoying the National Steinbeck Center, families can head to Toro County Park. This park offers a range of outdoor adventures for kids and adults alike. With over 4,000 acres of open space, it provides an excellent setting for hiking, picnicking, and nature exploration.

Children love the playgrounds scattered throughout the park. Families can take leisurely walks on well-maintained trails while spotting wildlife. The fresh air makes this spot perfect for outdoor recreation.

Kids will enjoy running around in wide-open spaces or playing games on the grass. Community programs often host events here too, adding extra fun to your visit with local festivals or family activities happening regularly.

Meeting animals at The Farm

The Farm in Salinas offers kids a fantastic chance to meet various animals. Children can interact with goats, sheep, and chickens. They can feed the animals and learn about their care.

This hands-on experience makes for fun family activities. Parents appreciate how these animal encounters teach kids about responsibility and nature.

Families also enjoy picnicking at The Farm’s beautiful outdoor spaces. Kids can explore the area while parents relax nearby. After visiting The Farm, families might want to check out other outdoor adventures for kids in Salinas.

Having fun at Tatum’s Garden

Tatum’s Garden offers a great space for family fun. Kids can enjoy the playground, complete with slides and swings. They can run around on the grass or have a picnic under shady trees.

This park also features colorful art installations that make for interesting sights.

Families looking for outdoor recreation will find plenty of activities here. Tatum’s Garden hosts community events throughout the year, making it a hub of local happenings. Children can engage in arts and crafts workshops during special days at the garden.

Exploring this vibrant place can lead to memorable moments for everyone involved. Outdoor adventures await just beyond Tatum’s Garden at nearby venues like Monterey Bay Equestrian Center.

Outdoor Adventures for Kids

Outdoor adventures for kids in Salinas offer excitement and exploration. Horseback riding at the Monterey Bay Equestrian Center will thrill young riders. Kids can enjoy scavenger hunts in both Monterey and Salinas, searching for hidden treasures together.

These activities promise fun while connecting with nature. Discover these amazing experiences as you plan your family outings!

Monterey Bay Equestrian Center

Monterey Bay Equestrian Center offers exciting adventures for kids. This facility provides horseback riding lessons and trail rides for all skill levels. Kids can enjoy safe, guided experiences while learning about horses.

The center focuses on building confidence in young riders.

Families can spend quality time together while exploring the beautiful trails around the area. Nature surrounds them as they ride through scenic landscapes. Children will appreciate animal encounters with friendly horses and ponies at the center.

Monterey Bay Equestrian Center is a perfect spot for outdoor fun that creates lasting memories.

Scavenger hunt in Monterey

Scavenger hunts in Monterey offer a fun way for families to explore the city. Kids can search for clues and complete challenges throughout popular locations. This interactive activity encourages outdoor recreation while engaging children’s minds.

Participants often discover beautiful sights and learn about local history along the way.

Many parks and playgrounds host organized scavenger hunt events, making it easy to join in the fun. Children enjoy hunting with friends or family, fostering teamwork and creativity.

These adventures provide unforgettable experiences that strengthen bonds among participants. After an exciting day of searching, families should check out cultural activities nearby like those at the Salinas Railroad Museum.

Scavenger hunt in Salinas

Salinas offers a fun scavenger hunt perfect for families. Kids can explore the city while searching for hidden treasures. The experience encourages teamwork and sharpens observation skills.

Participants will uncover local landmarks, parks, and unique attractions along the way.

Families can enjoy this activity at their own pace. It blends outdoor fun with adventure outings in Salinas. Parents appreciate how it fosters excitement about nature exploration and community programs.

Scavenger hunts provide memorable moments that kids will treasure long after the day is done.

Cultural and Educational Activities

Cultural and educational activities abound in Salinas. Kids can learn about local history at the Salinas Railroad Museum or enjoy a performance at The Western Stage Theater.

Salinas Railroad Museum

The Salinas Railroad Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of railroads in California. Families can explore interesting exhibits that showcase vintage trains, artifacts, and photographs.

Kids will enjoy interactive displays that let them understand how trains changed travel and commerce in the region.

Visitors can learn about the railroad’s impact on Salinas’ growth while enjoying family-friendly activities within the museum. Experienced staff often lead engaging programs that make learning fun for children.

This educational experience is perfect for those interested in local history or transportation. After exploring this unique museum, families can look forward to more cultural outings at The Western Stage Theater.

The Western Stage Theater

The Western Stage Theater offers exciting performances for families. This venue showcases a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year. Kids can enjoy shows that feature engaging stories and colorful characters.

Families often leave with smiles on their faces after a fun night out.

Check their schedule online to find upcoming performances that suit your family’s interests. Enjoying theater arts promotes creativity in kids while providing educational experiences outside the classroom.

After experiencing the magic of live performance, families can explore more educational activities at local museums.

Education experiences at Monterey Zoo

Following your visit to The Western Stage Theater, consider heading to the Monterey Zoo for exciting educational experiences. Kids will love learning about various animals and their habitats.

The zoo emphasizes wildlife conservation and offers fun programs designed for young explorers.

Children can participate in engaging activities that spark curiosity about nature. They will meet fascinating creatures up close during animal encounters. Interactive exhibits provide hands-on opportunities, enhancing learning through play.

This makes it a perfect spot for families seeking enriching experiences in Salinas.

Upcoming Events in Salinas

Salinas hosts exciting events for families throughout the year. Enjoy Shakespeare in Santa Cruz or participate in fun kids yoga classes that promote wellness and creativity.

Santa Cruz Shakespeare Festival

The Santa Cruz Shakespeare Festival offers family-friendly entertainment every summer. This event showcases various plays by William Shakespeare, performed outdoors. Families can enjoy engaging performances while embracing the beauty of nature.

Kids will love the lively atmosphere as actors bring characters to life. The festival often includes pre-show activities like arts and crafts. These experiences enhance children’s understanding of theater and classic literature.

Outdoor recreation combines with cultural enrichment during this exciting festival in nearby Santa Cruz.

Battle of the Bands fundraiser

The Battle of the Bands fundraiser takes place in Salinas and showcases local talent. Families can enjoy live music while supporting community programs. Different bands compete for prizes, creating a lively atmosphere.

This event often features food stalls and children’s attractions, making it fun for all ages.

Attendees can mingle with other families and enjoy a day filled with outdoor fun. Kids will love the energy from the performances as they cheer on their favorite bands. This annual event helps raise funds for important causes within the community, ensuring ongoing support for local activities and educational experiences.

Kids Yoga classes

After enjoying the Battle of the Bands fundraiser, families can join Kids Yoga classes in Salinas. These classes offer a fun way for children to stay active. Local instructors guide kids through simple poses and breathing exercises.

Classes focus on improving flexibility and concentration.

Kids Yoga provides a peaceful environment for learning. Children bond with peers while engaging in physical activity. The sessions often feature creative themes and music, which keep kids entertained.

Families looking for enriching educational experiences will find these sessions valuable for promoting well-being and mindfulness.

Family playdates at the farm

Kids Yoga classes lead nicely to family playdates at the farm. Families can enjoy fun activities in a relaxed setting. The farm offers plenty of space for children to run and explore while parents relax.

Kids can get up close with animals like goats and chickens. They also learn about farming practices in an engaging way.

Many farms host special playdate events throughout the year. These events often include arts and crafts, hayrides, and nature exploration opportunities. Visiting these farms promotes community programs that bring families together for outdoor recreation.

Families can create lasting memories while enjoying local attractions in Salinas.

FAQs

1. What family activities can we enjoy in Salinas with kids?

Families can visit parks and playgrounds, join community events, or explore local nature parks for outdoor fun.

2. Which children’s attractions are popular in Salinas?

Children’s museums and wildlife encounters offer hands-on educational experiences; many families also like animal encounters at nature centers.

3. Are there outdoor recreation options for children in Salinas?

Yes, you will find plenty of outdoor recreation such as hiking trails, picnic areas in parks and opportunities for nature exploration.

4. Where can my child try arts and crafts or join community programs?

Local community programs often host arts and crafts workshops along with seasonal family events that welcome all ages.

5. Does Salinas offer educational experiences outside school settings?

Salinas features kidfriendly attractions like interactive exhibits at children’s museums plus guided tours focused on local history and science topics.