Lets Get Out of the House: How to Find Fun Local Activities for Your Baby or Toddler

If you’re anything like me, staying cooped up all day with a toddler = a guaranteed case of the wiggles (for both of us). Babies and toddlers thrive on new experiences, movement, and stimulation—and honestly, so do we! But figuring out where to go and what to do with your little one can feel like a full-time job. So I’ve put together a list of tried-and-true ways I’ve found awesome local activities that get us out of the house and into the world.

1. Start with Your Local LibraryDon’t sleep on your neighborhood library! Most have free weekly story times for babies and toddlers, and some even host music or sensory play events. It’s a great way to introduce your little one to books and meet other parents. Plus: air conditioning and a bathroom. Need I say more?

2. Use Parent-Focused Apps & SitesThere are some really helpful apps and websites out there. I use Hulafrog, Mommy Nearest, and even Eventbrite to find baby- and toddler-friendly happenings in our area. You can filter by age, time, and location, which is a lifesaver when nap schedules are running the show.

3. Check Parks & Recreation CalendarsYour city’s Parks & Rec department probably has a calendar full of gems like toddler swim lessons, tot soccer, and seasonal festivals with kid zones. These events are often low-cost or free and cater specifically to families with little ones. Pro tip: sign up for their newsletter so you don’t miss registration windows!

4. Look Into Local MuseumsMany local museums—especially children’s museums and science centers—offer special toddler-friendly hours or soft play spaces where your little explorer can roam safely. Some even offer sensory-friendly mornings for quieter, low-stimulation fun. Museums also tend to be stroller-friendly, air-conditioned, and full of wonder, which is a total win for curious kiddos and tired parents alike.

5. Get Social (Media, That Is)Instagram and Facebook are gold mines for local events. I follow local mom bloggers, indoor play gyms, kid-friendly cafes, and even local businesses that do “Mommy & Me” classes. On Facebook, join a few local parenting groups—you’ll find playdate invites, activity roundups, and other moms in your same stage of life.

6. Organize Your Own PlaydatesSometimes the best outings are the ones you plan yourself. I love organizing casual playdates with mom friends or family members who have kids around my daughter’s age. Whether it’s meeting at a park, rotating homes, or picking a fun spot like an indoor play gym, playdates are a great way to get social time for both babies and moms. Bonus: you can commiserate over teething, snack strategies, and how no one is sleeping.

7. Look for Hidden GemsThink outside the (toy) box: nature centers, bookstores, and even some breweries and coffee shops host baby-friendly hours or events. We've stumbled on live music for kids, toddler dance parties, and free baby yoga just by exploring and chatting with other moms.

Getting out with a baby or toddler can be chaotic, yes—but it can also be so worth it. The key is to find places where your little one can explore safely and you can breathe easy (maybe even talk to another adult!). So pack those snacks, bring backup wipes, and go make some memories.

And hey—if you find a great spot in your area, share it with your mom friends! After all, it really does take a village. 💛