The best places to go with 2 year olds are zoos, beaches, and parks. But do you want more interesting local and international options for the kids? If yes, then keep reading, as this guide is packed with fun spots where your toddlers can play and learn. I’m covering everything – from cool museums to exciting theme parks.
Top 10 Local Places To Go with 2 Year Olds
When looking for local places to take your 2 year old, consider zoos, children’s museums, and parks. Each location offers unique, toddler-friendly activities that encourage learning through play, discovery, and physical activity, making them perfect spots for little explorers to have fun.
Zoos
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Animal exhibits, petting zoos, feeding sessions, interactive displays |
| Amenities | Restrooms, stroller rentals, picnic areas, cafes |
| Admission Fees | Varies by location; some offer free entry for children under 3 |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds |
I highly recommend visiting a zoo with your toddler. It’s not just about seeing animals; it’s about sparking your little one’s curiosity. Imagine the excitement on your child’s face as they spot a towering giraffe or hear a lion roar for the first time.
Zoos often have interactive elements like petting areas or feeding sessions, which are fantastic ways for toddlers to learn about nature and wildlife in a hands-on way. Plus, it’s a great walking activity for the whole family, ensuring everyone gets some exercise!
Children’s Museums
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Interactive exhibits, role-playing areas (firefighter, grocery store), water play zones, building blocks |
| Amenities | Child-friendly restrooms, nursing rooms, snack bars |
| Admission Fees | Generally affordable; some offer discounted family passes |
| Best Time to Visit | Early mornings on weekdays for fewer crowds |
Children’s museums are magical places designed just for kids to learn and explore through play. These museums are not like regular museums. They’re fun and full of life, often filled with colorful, interactive exhibits.
Here, your child can:
- Pretend to be a firefighter
- Explore a water play area
- Build with giant blocks.
Every visit helps develop their creativity and problem-solving skills. In my opinion, it’s a safe space where they can touch, play, and engage with everything. Note that this is perfect for their developmental stage.
Parks
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Playgrounds, swings, slides, sandboxes, walking trails |
| Amenities | Restrooms, benches, picnic areas, shaded spots |
| Admission Fees | Usually free |
| Best Time to Visit | Late mornings or early evenings; spring and fall for mild weather |
Don’t overlook your local parks. Parks are ideal for toddlers because they offer wide-open spaces to run freely and safely. They can:
- Swing
- Slide,
- Dig in sandboxes, and do much more.
In my experience, these things are excellent for kids’ physical development. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for them to interact with other children, which is great for their social skills.
Aquariums
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Viewing tanks, touch pools, live shows (dolphins, sea lions), interactive exhibits |
| Amenities | Stroller parking, cafes, gift shops |
| Admission Fees | Varies; some offer family memberships |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays during off-peak hours |
Aquariums are like underwater zoos that showcase the mysteries of the sea. At an aquarium, your toddler can see colorful fish, slow-moving sea turtles, and even playful dolphins, all without getting wet! It’s like watching a vibrant, moving painting.
In addition, aquariums also teach kids about different water habitats, helping them understand the importance of taking care of our oceans.
Indoor Play Centers
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Soft play areas, ball pits, climbing structures, slides |
| Amenities | Restrooms, cafes, seating areas for parents |
| Admission Fees | Generally modest; some offer passes or memberships |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds |
Indoor play centers are perfect for days when the weather doesn’t cooperate with outdoor plans. These places are safe havens of endless fun, with soft play areas, ball pits, and various games. Here, toddlers can climb, jump, and crawl in a climate-controlled environment.
These activities are not just fun but are also great for their physical development. Plus, it’s a social spot where they can meet and play with other kids their age. So, even on a rainy day, your toddler can burn off some energy.
Farm Visits
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Animal feeding, petting areas, fruit and vegetable picking |
| Amenities | Restrooms, picnic areas, farm shops |
| Admission Fees | Varies; often low cost or donation-based |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and fall for best weather and seasonal activities |
Visiting a farm can be an enlightening experience for a toddler. It’s not every day they get to see where their food comes from! At the farm, they can meet the animals they might have only seen in books, like:
- Cows
- Chickens
- Goats.
Your kid can even feed some of them under your watchful eye. Many farms also allow children to pick their own fruits and vegetables, which is a fun and educational activity. It teaches them about the process of growing food and the importance of agriculture. Plus, the open spaces are great for them to run around and enjoy nature.
Botanical Gardens
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Walking trails, plant and flower displays, butterfly gardens |
| Amenities | Restrooms, benches, cafes |
| Admission Fees | Varies; some offer free entry or donations |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and early summer for blooming plants |
I always find botanical gardens to be peaceful places. They are perfect for little ones to connect with nature. Walking through a botanical garden, your toddler can see, smell, and even touch various plants and flowers in a safe environment.
It’s a calm setting that can help instill a love and respect for nature from an early age.
Libraries
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Storytime sessions, interactive reading areas, play spaces |
| Amenities | Restrooms, child-sized furniture, quiet areas |
| Admission Fees | Free |
| Best Time to Visit | Mornings for story sessions or specific activity times |
Local libraries are treasure troves for young minds. Many libraries have sections just for children. They are filled with books that are perfect for tiny hands. They often offer storytime sessions and other fun activities, which are great for introducing your toddler to the joys of reading and listening.
Beaches
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Sand play, shallow water wading, shell collecting |
| Amenities | Lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic areas |
| Admission Fees | Usually free; some may have parking fees |
| Best Time to Visit | Early mornings or late afternoons; weekdays to avoid crowds |
Beaches are like giant playgrounds for toddlers. There’s nothing like watching your little one scoop and mold the sand, splash in the waves, and discover shells along the shore. These activities not only provide fun but also enhance their motor skills.
Always keep a close eye on them near the water, but let them enjoy the freedom of the sandy playground. Beach outings are perfect for family time and offer plenty of opportunities for creative play.
Community Events
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Face painting, puppet shows, parades, carnival rides |
| Amenities | Temporary restrooms, food stalls, seating areas |
| Admission Fees | Varies; many are free or have minimal entry fees |
| Best Time to Visit | Check local event calendars for timings |
Checking out local community events like fairs, festivals, or parades can be a delightful outing for your toddler. These events often have activities tailored for young children. Examples are face painting, balloon animals, or puppet shows.
Plus, community events are fun for the whole family, providing new experiences and creating joyful memories together.
Top 10 International Places to Go With 2-Year-Olds
Exploring international spots with your 2-year-old can be a delightful adventure. Places like Disneyland or Disney World and LEGOLAND are fantastic as they offer toddler-friendly attractions and magical experiences that are both fun and educational. You can also take them to safari parks and tropical islands, too.
Disneyland/Disney World
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Toddler-friendly rides, character meet-and-greets, parades, shows |
| Amenities | Baby care centers, stroller rentals, child-friendly dining |
| Admission Fees | High; various ticket options available |
| Best Time to Visit | Off-peak seasons (mid-January to mid-February, mid-September to mid-November) |
Disneyland or Disney World is a dream place for toddlers. Here, they can see fun parades with their favorite story characters. There are also many rides just right for little kids. Plus, they can meet and take pictures with characters like Mickey Mouse! It’s a place full of fun and smiles, perfect for making special family memories.
LEGOLAND
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | LEGO building areas, themed rides, mini-land displays |
| Amenities | Child care centers, stroller rentals, kid-friendly restaurants |
| Admission Fees | Moderate to high; annual passes available |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays during school terms to avoid crowds |
With its colorful and interactive LEGO-themed attractions, LEGOLAND parks provide plenty of opportunities for toddlers to build, play, and explore in a safe and imaginative environment.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Creative Play: Build with oversized LEGO blocks in dedicated play areas.
- Explore Miniature Cities: See incredible mini cities built entirely out of LEGOs.
- Safe Rides: Enjoy rides designed for small children, ensuring they’re fun and secure.
- Interactive Attractions: Engage in activities that let toddlers interact with their surroundings, fostering their creativity and imagination.
Beach Resorts
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Shallow pools, small water slides, beach play |
| Amenities | Kids’ clubs, child-friendly dining, strollers available |
| Admission Fees | Varies; often included in resort packages |
| Best Time to Visit | Depends on destination; generally shoulder seasons for best weather and rates |
Beach resorts are a dream vacation for families with toddlers. They are designed to make sure everyone has a great time, especially little ones. Here’s what makes them fantastic for kids:
- Shallow Pools: Perfect for safe splashing and playing under the sun.
- Water Slides: Small slides that are just the right size for toddlers to have fun sliding down.
- Kids’ Clubs: Supervised clubs where toddlers can do fun crafts, play games, and meet new friends, while parents get some time to relax. These clubs have lots of toys and activities, all tailored for young children.
Tropical Islands
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Beach play, shallow water activities, nature exploration |
| Amenities | Family accommodations, child care services, on-site restaurants |
| Admission Fees | Varies; resort packages may include many activities |
| Best Time to Visit | Avoid hurricane season; best times vary by location |
Tropical islands are perfect for families looking to enjoy nature with their toddlers. The calm waters and soft sandy beaches create a safe playground for little ones. Here’s why kids will love it:
- Splash in Gentle Waters: The calm sea is safe for toddlers to splash and play in.
- Play on Soft Sands: Build sandcastles, dig holes, or just enjoy the soft feel of the sand.
- Explore Marine Life: In shallow waters, toddlers can see fish and shells up close, sparking their curiosity about the ocean.
- Enjoy the Scenery: The beautiful scenery makes it a relaxing experience for the whole family.
Cultural Attractions
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Guided tours, interactive exhibits, child-friendly presentations |
| Amenities | Restrooms, cafes, stroller access |
| Admission Fees | Varies widely by location |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays or early mornings for fewer crowds |
Cultural attractions like temples, castles, and historical sites are not just for adults. They can be wonderful places for toddlers to explore and learn too. These spots are great for families because they combine education with entertainment.
Here’s why they are fantastic for kids:
- Explore Grand Structures: Toddlers can marvel at the size and beauty of different buildings and monuments.
- Learn Through Stories: I find that kids love stories, and these places are full of them (from brave knights in castles to gods in temples).
- Interactive Tours: Many cultural sites offer tours or activities designed for children, making history come alive.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional dances or musical performances, which are super entertaining.
These experiences help toddlers develop an early appreciation for history and culture.
Safari Parks
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Safari tours, animal feedings, educational talks |
| Amenities | Rest areas, picnic spots, child-friendly amenities |
| Admission Fees | Varies; often includes guided tours |
| Best Time to Visit | Early mornings or late afternoons for animal activity |
Safari parks are exciting places for toddlers because they offer a safe way to see wild animals up close. Here’s why safari parks are ideal for your little ones:
- See Animals Up Close: From the safety of a vehicle, toddlers can see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more in their natural habitats.
- Guided Tours: These parks often have tours designed with kids in mind, ensuring that the information is engaging and the rides are safe.
- Educational Activities: Many safari parks include educational centers where children can learn more about animals through simple, fun activities.
- Picnic Areas: After a tour, families can relax in designated picnic areas where kids can play and eat.
Visiting a safari park can be a memorable adventure for toddlers. It gives them a fun and educational experience that nurtures a love for animals.
City Parks and Gardens
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Playgrounds, walking paths, picnic areas |
| Amenities | Restrooms, cafes, benches |
| Admission Fees | Usually free |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and fall for mild weather |
City parks and gardens are perfect places for toddlers to stretch their legs and explore in a safe, beautiful environment. These green spaces in the heart of busy cities offer a breath of fresh air and plenty of room for little ones to play.
Here’s why they are great for kids:
- Playgrounds: Most city parks have playgrounds with swings, slides, and climbing frames that are just the right size for toddlers.
- Open Spaces: There’s plenty of grass to run around on, play ball, or have a family picnic.
- Children’s Attractions: Some parks also have attractions just for kids, like small train rides or pony rides.
- Events: Keep an eye out for children’s events in these parks, such as puppet shows or interactive plays. They are often free and happen throughout the year.
Parks and gardens provide a natural setting for children to learn and play, making them a must-visit for families looking for a relaxing day out.
Family-Friendly Resorts
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Kids’ clubs, playgrounds, toddler pools |
| Amenities | Family rooms, child care services, kid-friendly dining |
| Admission Fees | Varies; often included in resort packages |
| Best Time to Visit | Off-peak seasons for best rates and fewer crowds |
Family-friendly resorts are designed to ensure toddlers have a fantastic vacation. These resorts know exactly what young families need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Here’s why these resorts are superb for kids:
- Kids’ Clubs: Supervised kids’ clubs are available where toddlers can engage in age-appropriate activities under the care of professionals.
- Playgrounds: Safe and well-equipped playgrounds are always a hit, allowing toddlers to play in a secure environment.
- Pools: Many resorts have child-friendly pools with shallow water, perfect for splash and play.
- Supervised Entertainment: From magic shows to mini discos, these programs are tailored to entertain young children.
- Family Rooms: Rooms are often designed to accommodate families with little ones. They even feature amenities like cribs and safety locks.
By choosing a family-friendly resort, you can ensure that your toddler has as much fun on vacation as you do, with activities and accommodations tailored to their needs.
Any International Outdoor Market
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Food tastings, craft displays, local music |
| Amenities | Restrooms, seating areas, snack stalls |
| Admission Fees | Usually free |
| Best Time to Visit | Morning or late afternoon for a relaxed atmosphere |
Outdoor markets can be a fantastic way for toddlers to experience local culture firsthand. These markets are vibrant, colorful, and full of life, making them perfect for little explorers.
Here’s why they are great for kids:
- Taste New Foods: Toddlers can try different fruits, snacks, and treats that are not available back home. It’s a fun way to introduce them to new tastes.
- See Local Crafts: Markets often have stalls with handmade toys, clothes, and art. Kids can see artisans at work, maybe even painting or crafting something special.
- Interact with Vendors: Friendly vendors often enjoy interacting with children, and this can be a gentle way for toddlers to learn about local lifestyles and practices.
- Enjoy the Atmosphere: The hustle and bustle of a market are exciting to young children, filled with new sounds, sights, and smells.
Visiting an outdoor market can help stimulate a toddler’s curiosity about the world around them, making every visit a learning opportunity.
Animal Sanctuaries
| Feature | Details |
| Activities Available | Guided tours, animal interactions, educational sessions |
| Amenities | Restrooms, picnic areas, gift shops |
| Admission Fees | Varies; often donation-based |
| Best Time to Visit | Mornings or late afternoons for cooler weather and active animals |
Animal sanctuaries offer a unique opportunity for toddlers to see wildlife up close in a safe and caring environment. These places are not just about viewing animals; they are about understanding and respecting wildlife.
Here’s why they are ideal for young children:
- Observe Animals: Kids can see animals they might have only seen in books or on TV, like lions, elephants, or monkeys, living peacefully.
- Educational Talks: Many sanctuaries have educational sessions tailored for young audiences, teaching them about wildlife conservation in simple, engaging ways.
- Interact Safely: Some sanctuaries allow children to interact with certain animals under supervision, such as feeding a giraffe or petting a rabbit.
- Learn Compassion: By learning about rescued animals and conservation efforts, toddlers begin to develop a sense of compassion and responsibility towards animals.
Animal sanctuaries not only provide a fun day out but also instill a deep respect for nature and wildlife in young visitors, shaping them into conscientious future citizens.
Conclusion
As you plan your adventures with your little one, remember these points:
- Interactive Learning: Museums and educational centers designed for young minds.
- Outdoor Exploration: Parks and gardens that offer freedom and contact with nature.
- Theme parks and resorts tailored for tiny thrill-seekers.
- Cultural Immersion: Visits to cultural sites and markets that enrich and educate.
Remember that each place provides unique opportunities for fun and development.