5 Fun Places for Family Outings

Flamingos
Photo by Brendan Beale via Unsplash

 

Clark’s Elioak Farm

Experience one of Maryland’s oldest family farm operations—224 years and seven generations of the Clark family. Admission to the petting zoo is $8, and special rides—the cow train, pony rides, Enchanted Express train and wagon rides—are $2.50 each. Buy fresh vegetables and herbs or stop in for a free Easter egg hunt from April 9-17. The farm also features restored pieces from the Harrison family’s 1955 Enchanted Forest—displays of larger-than-life characters from famous children’s tales such as Mother Goose and Cinderella, plus giant flowers, lollipops and mushrooms. Explore the Fairy Forest for a peek at where these tiny creatures live and stay for a storybook reading. 10500 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City; 410-730-4049; clarklandfarm.com

 

HyperKidz

If your child has a lot of energy to let loose, a 16,000-square-foot indoor playground is sure to do the trick. Children up to age 13 can enjoy unlimited play every day at this safari-themed playground with developmental zones for different age groups that will allow the entire family to play under one roof. The space includes multi-level play structures and out-of-the-box features such as an LED dance floor and giant pin screens. Two adults are free with a child’s admission starting at $7.99. 11460 Cronridge Drive, Owings Mills; 410-231-7570; baltimore.hyperkidzplay.com

 

iFly Baltimore

Ever wanted to go skydiving? Now you can go with your kids—sort of! This fun on-the-ground skydiving experience simulates the feeling of floating on air through a vertical wind tunnel. Children ages 3 and older will learn in a session with friends and family. They’ll then fly together with participants of the same skill level. A flight school for ages 4-16 and an all-abilities program are available. Tickets start at $64.99. Family packages are available. 8209 Towne Center Drive, Baltimore; 667-888-4359; iflyworld.com/baltimore

 

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore

The zoo experience includes more than watching all your furry, flying and crawling friends in their habitats. Ride on the Old Fashioned carousel, hop on a train to tour the grounds or engage in hands-on experiences that will get your child meet-and-greets with the animals. Feed the giraffes, learn through observing an otter or rhino training and do your part for the zoo with free goat-brushing. Free events are offered daily. Explore the calendar on the zoo’s website for special events. Tickets start at $20 for children ages 2 and older. One Safari Place, Baltimore; 410-396-7102; marylandzoo.org

 

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym

Billed as “A Place Where You Never Have to Say I’m Sorry,” We Rock the Spectrum is an indoor play gym created especially for children, teens and adults with special needs. Play areas have equipment that is not only fun but helps improve skills, such as the zip line—which helps in stress relief and body relaxation—and sensory-based toys for auditory processing and motor skills. Parents can use one-on-one attendant care if they want a break while their child plays. Siblings and children of all abilities will find plenty to entertain with open play, which starts at $14.
1998 Rock Spring Road, Suite D, Forest Hill; 410-891-4600; werockthespectrumforesthill.com
Bonus: Check out werockthespectrumbaltimore.com, expected to open in Owings Mills in mid-April.

About Lindsay VanAsdalan

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