Whether your recently PCS’d to Washington state or you’ve been here for years, you’re likely dreading this dreary season. And by “season,” we mean months upon months (upon months).
Due to the Pacific Ocean’s moist air, the west side of Washington state experiences ample cloud cover and rain, mostly during winter months (we promise, the summer is worth it though). Don’t be afraid to get outside. Buy the rainboots, the rain jackets. Embrace the constant drizzle. The Pacific Northwest is stunning (for winter hike inspiration, check out this post).
But now that I have children, I can contest wet playgrounds are not fun. Every morning my son brings me his shoes and whines and whines about going outside.
Thankfully, there are some indoor options. So for those especially wet and cold days, check out these indoor spaces:
Bainbridge Island: Kid’s Discovery Museum (KiDiMu)
The Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu) is Kitsap County’s premier children’s museum. Located on Bainbridge Island, the museum seeks to spark children’s curiosity through play and experiential learning. The museum offers fun exhibits, play structures, and education spaces focused on interactive science and art. For the latest COVID protocols, please check the website.
Fall Hours:
Monday & Friday: 1pm-5pm
Tuesday, Thursday & Satruday: 9am-4pm
Wednesday & Sunday: Closed
Cost: $8 for adults and children, $7 for senior/grandparent, free for infants under 1. Use the code “milfirst” to receive a Military/First Responder discount! The museum also offers memberships which grant unlimited access for a year.
Reservations Required:
Yes. You can book your playtime in advance here.
Bremerton: Ahoy Kitsap Playland
Bremerton’s Ahoy Kitsap Playland is the perfect place to retreat from a rainy day!The space offers three different areas for littles to explore, including a fenced-in baby and toddler play space, climbing structures and slides for bigger kids, virtual reality and more! The business also sells ample snacks, coffee and even beer and wine for mo and dad.
Fall & Winter Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday: 10am-8pm
Sunday & Monday: 10am-5pm
Cost: $10 for toddlers ages 12-23 months; $13.50 for children ages 2-12; $11 for military kids (babies under 1 are free)
Reservations Required:
No, walk-ins are welcome! But when you arrive you will need to fill out a waiver.
Bremerton: Bug & Reptile Museum
The Bug & Reptile Museum is a beloved litle institution located in Bremerton! The museum offers over 15 kid-friendly exhibits featuring both live and preserved bugs and reptiles. Kids can explore bizarre bugs under he microscope, look through glasses that let you see like a bug, and even watch busy ants in their giant 8 foot long ant farm!
Fall & Winter Hours:
Open 7 days a week, 10am-5pm
Cost: N/A – the museum is free for the whole family!
Reservations Required:
Nope! You can stop by anytime.
Tacoma: Children’s Museum of Tacoma
OK, this one is more of a drive but worthy on our list! The Children’s Museum of Tacoma seeks to honor children and champion play. Make forts, play in the water, create a masterpiece in Becka’s Studio or soar to the moon! The museum also offers a variety of special events and weekly programs. If you’re located close to Joint Base Lewis–McChord, they also have a museum on base.
Fall & Winter Hours:
Friday, Saturday & Sunday: 10am-5pm
Friday: 2pm-5pm (low sensory hours)
Cost: N/A. The museum operates on a “pay as you will,” donation admission to be inclusive to all children and families.
Required Reservations:
No, walk-ins are welcome!
Did we miss any others? Comment below!