Fun for Children in Renton

There are lot of fun things to do in the Seattle/Tacoma area of Washington state; however, many of them include either a lot of money, a lot of traffic or a long drive - the beach, Point Defiance and Woodland Park Zoos, Enchanted Village, etc. Here are some fun things to do if you live in the Renton area and need to entertain some children this summer.

Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park With 1 1/2 miles of walking trails along the shores of Lake Washington, a playground, a sandy beach with plenty of shallow water to play in, and two good fast food restraurants (Ivars and Kidd Valley), this is a popular place to come in the summer. Parking can be difficult, so plan on coming early. The entrance is on Lake Washington Boulevard and Park Drive. Bring plenty of sun block, blankets to lay around on, and water toys. There is a good restroom, water to rinse off with, life guards and a concession stand at the beach.

Renton River Days Kids Day is July 19, 2006 and includes a petting zoo, a coloring contest, inflatable toys to bounce on, entertainment, and exhibits. On Friday, July 21st, the Nibble of Renton features restaurantswith food irems for under $5. Then on Saturday is the parade. Lots of fun, the crowds aren't bad, and most of it is free.

Henry Moses Aquatic Center A 26 feet high orange and blue water slides and two separate pools are the highlight of this recreational center. The leisure pool includes popular features such as a zero-depth entry, wave machine, water spray play area, lazy river, island lagoon, two water slides, a water play structure, toddler water area, and numerous spray features. Admission is $4 to $6 for residents and $6 to $12 for non-Renton residents.

Ikea Kids Club The only Ikea store in Washington is located at the corner of SW 41st and Lind in Renton. Sign your children up for the Kids Club and while you shop, they can enjoy the childrens fun room with lots of imaginary playtime. The cafeteria has good healthy food for children and adults. Favorites: the meatball and gravy with french fries and lingonberry sauce lunch for kids and the vegetarian lasagna for adults. Swipe your child's Kid Club card upon entering the store and you will always win something fun.

Soos Creek Trail Grab the bikes, scooters, roller skates, and strollers to walk the 4 miles of trail. It begins at Gary Grant Park at SE 208th and 137th SE and ends at Lake Meridian Park. There are many places inbetween where you can pick up the trail. Along the way see many kinds of birds, including great blue herons and ducks, smell the aroma of skunk cabbage, see a variety of plants, and a variety of dogs being walked. The trails are paved and there are picnic places along the way and a few restrooms.

Regal Free Family Film Festival At East Valley 13 Cinema on East Valley Highway, just past the entrance for Highway 167, free movies for the family during the summer every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 am. The movies are G or PG and it's first come first served - seating is limited so get there early. It starts as soon as school is out, so for 2006, the first Tuesday would be June 27th.