The other day was Family Day here in BC, which meant we had a long weekend. We decided we wanted to spend the whole day together just our little family of four at the Woodland Park Zoo. It was a bit crazy, but wonderful. It’s so important to have days where we just make memories together.
We got up ridiculously early on Monday morning so that we could be out the door by 6:30am and head to the boarder. One of us is still waiting for their Nexus to arrive, which means no fast lane for us to get through to the States. We were also worried about hitting morning rush hour traffic. Sure enough, we did hit that but it was thanks to our missing the exit we needed to get to the zoo.
By the time we arrived after our mini road trip down there, the girls were ready to get out of the car and get moving. That is part of what we love about zoos, being able to wander around and stretch our legs so much. We definitely got our step count in that day.
The Woodland Park Zoo is one that can take multiple hours to get through. Our visit on Family Day was almost 5 hours long and we didn’t get to every exhibit this time. The girls were content getting to wander here and there, seeing all the different creatures. Addie would happily wave to everything she saw. There were moments she protested the stroller seat so we would let her walk. A few times she even stood on the board that attached to the stroller.
We hope that days like that are what always stand out to our girls in their memories. Sure we had our crazy moment, like both girls not wanting to be in their carseats any more (so thankful for Beat Bugs and PAW Patrol on our Ipad… yay for being able to download from Netflix!), but we made it through!
Everyone ate more treats than they normally do. The girls almost ate us out of snacks and drank everything we packed. We made a stop at a mall on the way home to wander Target and stretch our legs. We also grabbed a quick dinner before heading back home. We will always remember both girls fighting over the guacamole and then figuring out how to share together. It was a fantastic Family Day.
Did you get up to anything this Family Day if you live in BC?
Do you have a family adventure planned any time soon?
WHAT OUR PRESCHOOLER LOVED ABOUT FAMILY DAY
- Feeding the penguins: we had the opportunity to experience penguin feeding at the zoo. While we had intended for Evie and both of adults to take part, Evie enjoyed feeding the penguins every last fish. She was so happy and giggling the whole time.
- Riding the carousel: both of our girls love going on carousels. Getting to pick out the horse they want and then spinning round and round is such a thrill to them. So glad we bought the multiple ride card from customer service before we went in. Both of the girls went for 3 rides each.
- THE HIPPOS!: this one was shouted from the back seat of the car as her favourite. Someone has become a huge fan of The Lion Kind and The Lion Guard recently. The hippo is now a favourite for her. We’re not sure why she loved them so much, they were standing still sun bathing when we saw them.
- Mommy, Daddy, and Addie: she loved that it was a day spent just the 4 of us. We’re glad that this was part of what stood out to her about the day. Time together making memories.
It looks like you and your family had a wonderful time. Your pictures are amazing and beautiful! Thank you for sharing your travel pictures with us. 🙂
I visited that same zoo a few years ago with my daughters and loved it! I miss Seattle. Hope you guys had a wonderful time!
We wanted to go for our sons irthday last year but didn’t because hotel prices were so high for a last minute trip. Good to know it’s doable in a day with little ones, makes me want to try it in the summer
It looks like you all had such a great time. I will definitely put this down as a place to take the kids.
Looks like fun! My boys love going to the zoo. Might have to check this one out when we are out that way one day.
Family days are the best!! We love the zoo and aquarium!
The zoo is one of our favorite places! We are planning some family fun in the near future!
Looks like you guys had a blast!!
Looks like a wonderful Family Day for your family! Great memories to cherish. We went to the park and enjoyed it too 🙂
I love this zoo and can’t wait to take my little one.
My kids would love to visit this zoo. My 11 year old is already asking if there is a zoo on our roadtrip path for this summer!
These family outing make the best memories. I loved having an Aquarium membership to share with the kids when they were young.