NC Zoo

If you're willing to do a little driving, the NC Zoo is a great place to take your kids. It is located in Asheboro, NC, and takes about an hour and a half from Fort Bragg. When you go, unless you're positive that your kids will be able to walk, I HIGHLY recommend bringing a stroller, and wearing good walking shoes. This zoo is hilly and very spread out, so there's lots of walking to be done.

Tickets: $10 for adults, and $6 for kiddos. Under 2 is free.
Hours: April-October: 9-5, November-March: 9-4

There are SO many great exhibits here, and a few different places to stop and eat. It is very stroller friendly as well, with wide, paved paths and ramps. The three times I have visited this zoo, I have never had any issues with anything. I highly recommend making the trip.

Their website: http://www.nczoo.org/index.cfm

Consignement Sales

When I originally set up this blog, I was intending to include local sales on it, so I figured I'd start that now. I love consignment sales, and yard sales, but I often find I'm a little overwhelmed by them. However, if anyone knows of some good ones, give a shout out on here! There are a couple locally that I've been to, and here are links to them:

http://www.hugsandkissesconsignment.com/ (the family that runs this one is so friendly!)

http://www.northwoodmops.com/ (I only went to this one a few years ago, and it was HUGE- I've somehow managed to miss it since then)

Both of these sites have mailing lists, which I recommend signing up for!

Ft Bragg/Pope Movie Theater

I've gone past the movie theater on Ardennes many times, but never thought to watch a movie there. But this weekend, I noticed that they were playing Monsters Vs Aliens, which my 3 year old has been asking to see for months (we missed it in the regular theater). So, we avoided the blistering heat on Saturday, and headed to the 4pm show. I was very pleasantly surprised by how cheap the tickets were, and the theater was just fine. They had overpriced popcorn and drinks like everywhere else aswell. Here's the details:

York Theater
C-7950 Ardennes St., Fort Bragg

Pope Theater
372 Virgin St., Pope AFB

website: http://www.aafes.com/ems/conus/bragg.htm

For current listings, call 910-960-9660 I just called to make sure it works, and it does. The lady hadn't made the recording yet, so she actually answered the phone and then after asking if I was looking for the listings, read them all off for me. For kiddos, Monsters vs. Aliens, Hannah Montana, and Transformers (old kids) are playing this week.

The best part was the prices:
Matinees @ 1pm and 4pm- $2 (kids and adults)
7pm- children $2, adults $3
I THINK that children must be over 3, b/c we only paid $4 for the 4 of us for a 4pm showing.

Just an FYI on Monsters Vs Aliens for everyone- I thought it was a cute movie, but pretty intense. My 3 year old liked it, but was definitely sitting in his Dad's lap clinging to him for a lot of it. If you're wary of any violence for your kiddos, this probably isn't the movie for you.

Badin Lake Campgrounds in Uwharrie National Forest

So, we had our first family camping trip this weekend, and it was really a lot of fun! Badin Lake Campgrounds are 2 hours north west of Fort Bragg. It was an easy drive both ways. We considered this our "test run", so we only went for one night to see how our boys (3 years and 7 months) handled it.


Badin Lake was truly beautiful. It's camping in the sense that you're outdoors, but there are bathrooms and showers, that seem to be cleaned everyday. Each campsite has a grill, a fire pit and an area for your tent. Ours was surrounded completely by trees. Some had some grassy area around them (which we'll try to get next time so our 3 year old can run around). Check in is 4pm, and checkout is 2pm. We loved that b/c we were able to go for a nice hike in the morning. A lot of people brought boats with them, so there was a lot of boating on the lake. I'd imagine that there is an area where you can enter the water walking, but we didn't see this. To make reservations, and for more info, go to http://www.recreation.gov You have to make reservations 3 days in advance online, or you can call after that. They do take walk-ins, but I would only try to do that during the week. There is a "host" (older guy who talks to much :o) who lives on one of the campsites, in a camper. He has maps, and firewood.


I'd be happy to answer any questions anyone might have.

Has anyone ever been camping at MWR's Smith Lake? We're thinking of trying that next, since it's SO close.

I hope everyone enjoys their Father's Day tomorrow!

CAMPING!

So....our first family camping adventure starts tomorrow! That's right, I'm sleeping in a tent with my 3 year old and 7 month old....and my wilderness loving hubby! I asked him if I could bring my mattress. We're headed to Badin Lake Campground in the Uwharrie National Forest. I'll let you all know what I think of it when we get back- we're only going for 1 night, so you won't be in suspense long! In the meantime...do any of you have any favorite camping spots around here?

Also, I MUST recommend http://www.recreation.gov/ as a tool to check out different recreation/national parks. It's a pretty cool website!

Hope Mills Dam

Thanks again to Bellabbr for another suggestion! This is another one that I haven't visited, but hope to in the near future. I was talking to one of my friends today about how we all (myself included) complain that there's not enough to do with kids, but really there is, we just need to get out and do it! Here's what Bellabbr said about the Hope Mills Dam area:

"Today we went out to the Hope Mills Dam and its a really nice area. There is a fishing dock, an area to swim, rent paddle boats, a kids playground and then a covered aread that sells icees, hot dogs, burgers, sodas and chips. Really nice area to hang out with the kids. Also on Saturday nights, they have free movie night.
Its on N Main street and Trade Street in Hope Mills. "

I couldn't find anymore info online about this area, so has anyone else been there? I did find out that the new dam was just completed in Oct 08, so this should be a pretty new area- unless they just reopened the old area? I really have no idea...

Fantasy Lake Park

Thanks again to bellabbr for the suggestion!

FANTASY LAKE WATER PARK
5869 Permastone Lake Road
Hope Mills, NC 28

I have never been to Fantasy Lake Park, but after looking at their website, I think we might go this weekend!! Here's what it says on their website:

"Fantasy Lake Water Park is the Carolinas best spot for summer fun! Fantasy Lake is based out of a 6 acre man made lake with a clean white sand bottom surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches. Enjoy dozens of activities in and out of the water. Fantasy Lake Water Park is fun for
the entire family!"

Dates they are open:
May 16, 17, 23, 24, 25, 30 and 31
June 6, 7, 10-30
July 1-31
August 1-23, 29 and 30
September 5, 6 and 7
10am-7pm

Admission:
Adult General Admission (ages 11 and over) $14.00
Child General Admission (ages 3-10) $10.00
Infants (2 and under) Free with paying parent

Check out their website for more info and pics! It looks like a lot of fun!

http://www.fantasylakewaterpark.com/

Swimming Lessons!

Thanks to Bellabbr for suggesting swim lessons! I took my then 2 year old son to swim lessons when we were at Fort Benning, and he loved it! I don't think we'll be tackling that this summer, since I think it would be a bit much with my 6 month old in one arm. However, here's some info for you all:

YMCA (thanks Bellabbr!)

Fayetteville YMCA
2717 Fort Bragg Road
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Telephone: 910-323-0800

Its $60 for 8 classes if you are not a member and $30 if you are (membership for the family is $59 a month). They have classes M&W, T&Thur and Sat mornings. Their website also provides some very detailed info: http://www.fayettevilleymca.org/Fayetteville_YMCA/Fayetteville_YMCA%3A_Aquatics.html

Fort Bragg/Pope AFB YMCA
208 Thorncliff Dr
Fayetteville, NC 28303

After raking their website, I don't think this Y provides swim lessons. I kept it on the list, b/c they do seem to have a lot of other kid's programs. Here's their website: http://www.braggasymca.org/index.htm

Hope Mills YMCA
3910D
Hope Mills, NC 28348
Telephone: 910-426-9622
Telephone: 910-436-0500

http://www.fayettevilleymca.org/Hope_Mills_YMCA/Hope_Mills_YMCA%3A_Aquatics.html

I thought it was interesting that you can just get a pool membership at the Y if you're not interested in the other services they provide.

On post through CYS: The CYS website says to call the Community Recreation Division at 643-8533.

HealthPlex of Cape Fear Valley Health System
1930 Skibo Road, Fayetteville, NC
There appear to be a variety of lessons offered here (for different ages). The prices vary depending on whether you are a member or not.
Specifics of the lessons: http://www.healthplexonline.com/index_aquatics.htm
Times and fees http://www.healthplexonline.com/index_aquatics.htm

The Sports Center (Thanks Rae Anne for the info!)
5951 Cliffdale Rd.
Fayetteville, NC 28314
(910) 864-3303
http://www.sportscenterfnc.com/swimming.html
Cost: Member $50
Non-member $65
According to their website, they have swim lesson schedules available at their front desk. I like that it appears they have swim lessons for 3 year olds that are NOT parent/tot, so maybe I'd just have to sit and watch (with my 6 month old).

If anyone knows of any other places for swim lesson, let me know and I'll post it! :o)

Also, thank you to all of you who have contributed to this blog so far!

Art For Tots

Thanks Ali, for sharing this!

It's been on hold for the last couple months, but in July I will be starting back up with Art for Tots if I get enough interest. Art activities for kids 4 and under. Homebased, small classes where every child leaves with a project he/she makes. I have had children 6 months to 3 years old thus far and have activities for all ages. Painting, cookie/cupcake decorating, making natural bird feeders, holiday inspired crafts, etc

Website is www.myspace.com/art4tots

Price 5 per child or 4 for military. Classes last 45 mins to an hour. Class sizes are limited to 4 children so sign up is important.

My email is Berrykixx@yahoo.com for more info.

The Fast Food Playdate

Allright, let's compile a list of restaurants in the area that have a play area, and what we think of them.

McDonalds
207 MURCHISON
SPRING LAKE, NC 28390

I've been to this McDonalds MANY times for playdates. I love that the play area is large, and that there is only one entrance/exit to the area. There is a large eating area within the play area, and it's great b/c you can keep an eye on your kids/eat while they play. I've found that it's very clean, as far as play areas go. This is the only McDonalds with a play area that I've been to (in the Fayetteville area). Here's a list of the others, with play areas, in the area:

5009 SANTE FE ROAD
FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28303-2758
(910)867-7419

1900 SKIBO ROAD
FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28314-1540
(910)864-0720

810 S REILLY RD
FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28314
(910)864-9631

3815 RAMSEY ST
FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28311-7640
(910)488-4773

6779 RAEFORD RD
FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28303
(910)868-9710

3000 NORTH MAIN STREET
HOPE MILLS, NC 28348-1722
(910)425-5329

5090 NC HIGHWAY 87 SOUTH
FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28306
(910)485-7373

111-A 401 BYPASS
RAEFORD, NC 28376
(910)904-0333

Sonic

I've also been to Sonic on Cliffdale and Yadkin several times for playdates. Both are great b/c the play area is fenced in (outside), and there's only one entrance/exit. They both have sand playgrounds, with large play structures. The Yadkin playground is significantly larger than Cliffdale. The one large downside to both is that the tables in the eating area are FILTHY. Not just food debris, but blackened with dirt on the tables. This hasn't kept me from going, b/c my son loves it, and so do his friends, but we are definitely careful not to put any food on the table. I'm listing all of the Sonic locations, b/c I believe that they all have playgrounds, but I'm not positive.

5846 YADKIN ROAD, FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28303
1208 N. BRAGG BLVD, SPRING LAKE, NC 28390
5938 CLIFFDALE ROAD, FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28314-2121
3609 RAMSEY STREET, FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28311
2886 HOPE MILLS ROAD, FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28306

Chick Fil-A
1921 Skibo Rd.
Fayetteville, NC 28314

I believe that is the only Chick Fil-A that has a play area. I have only been to this play area once, and I wasn't very impressed. It was very small, and you can't actually sit in the play area. You can sit outside it and watch, but then your kids are going in and out of the door. It's definitely an option, but not the best, in my opinion.

Burger King

I've never had a playdate at a Burger King. Their website doesn't seem to state which locations have a play area. Does anyone know?

Does Wendy's have play areas?

Joe's Crab Shack

I almost didn't post this one b/c if you're going there, it's obviously not just for the kiddos (b/c of the non fast-food prices) However, their play area is great. You can sit above it (there's a ramp leading down to it), and there's only one entrance/exit, and it's onto the deck eating area. I also think kids eat free on Tuesday?

Are there any other eat and play restaurants that you all can think of?

Marbles

http://www.marbleskidsmuseum.org/

I have never been here, but my cousin says it is awesome. I think I'll have to make a daytrip of it sometime soon! Anyone have any input?

Deal a Day Websites

So...I might have a little addiction to "deal a day" websites. So, I figured I'd share them, in case any of you haven't heard. The thing I've found on them the most are great shoes for my boys.

http://www.babysteals.com (my fav!)
http://www.mamabargains.com
http://www.shnoop.com
http://www.greenbabybargains.com
http://www.tottlers.com
http;//www.woot.com

Have fun!!! :o)

Fascinate U Children's Museum

Thanks again to Hunter_392 for making a suggestion...
Fascinate U Children's Museum

Here's what she had to say:

Another place is the Fascinate-U Children's Museum, "Fascinate-U is a place where children can explore their world the way they learn best-through creative role-playing, manipulation, and interaction with each other and the objects around them."
They are located at 116 Green Street in Fayetteville. The hours are
Museum Hours:

Monday: Closed

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9am-5pm

Wednesday: 9am-7pm

Saturday: 10am-5pm

Sunday: 12pm-5pm

Admission:

$3.00 per child

$1.00 per adult


Now I don't know if they still do it but on Wed afternoons they used to just ask for a donation for admittance instead of the normal fees.
Check out their web site for additional info
http://www.fascinate-u.com/


From me: I've been to Fascinate U several times with my older son. It's a great thing to do on a rainy/too hot day. It's in need of some major updating, but for a smaller child, it can hold their attention for an hour or so. It's VERY small as far as children's museums go, but hey, it's Fayetteville, right??!! I also like that it's in downtown Fayetteville, and you can go someplace yummy for lunch afterward...like Blue Moon, Pierro's or Beef O' Brady's!

Anyone else have input?

Splash Pad!

Splash Pad
500 Fisher Street at Christina Smith Park
910-433-1572

Fight the heat with a splash of water! Come enjoy the pad as water sprinkles from a rainbow of colored arches. Onlookers can relax under the shaded tables near the splash pad. Open to the public and fun for all ages. The Pad closes on September 30.

Monday-Friday, 3 pm-6 pm

Saturday -10 am -6 pm

Sunday - 1 pm -6pm; free admission

I have never been here...who has??!! We'd love to hear what you think about it!

From Hunter_ 392 (Thanks for your input! :o)
the splash pad that is off 301 across from the pwc. It is a park that has a playground, rest rooms, picnic area and a nice set of sprinklers. It is free to go and the sprinklers are nice if you have little ones but don't really want to go to a pool. There are an assortment of sprinklers they can run thru, under and over. The pad where the water is has a fence around it with just one way in or out (right next to the rest rooms). The last time I was there you had to bring your own chairs or blankets to sit on the grass around the sprinklers but to me that isn't a huge deal.

From Fayetteville Observer:

The small, water-toy filled Splash Pad, located at Christina Smith Park, sits just outside downtown Fayetteville. Despite its small size, the Pad packs a punch with its water fountains, sprayers and cannons, all for free.

The details: 500 Fisher St. Call the J.S. Spivey Recreation Center at 433-1572. Admission: Free
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday, 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday
Food: There is no snack bar, but visitors are allowed to bring food, which cannot be eaten inside the Pad.
Picnic area: Benches sit under a canopy next to the Splash Pad. Visitors can take their food there. The area can be rented out, though, so if it’s too crowded, find a shady spot just outside the Pad to enjoy your snacks.
Lifeguards: There are no lifeguards on duty, so no children under 10 years old are allowed without an adult.
Lockers: There are no lockers on site, but bathrooms sit just outside the Splash Pad’s gate.
Quotable: “We really like it. It gets us out of the house. And it’s free, so that’s a definite plus.” — Amanda Ortiz, a mother who is part of a mother’s play group. The members take their kids to different spots around Cumberland County.

Preschools!

Anyone have any recommendations...or schools that they don't recommend?

Jambbas Ranch Adventure!

Jambbas Ranch
5386 Tabor Church Rd
Fayetteville, NC 28312

http://www.jambbas.com

Has anyone else been to Jambbas Ranch? My friend and I "discovered" it a couple months ago, and found it was a good way to spend a morning and allow my boys to see a lot of different animals. I was a bit disappointed that it's not very well maintained, but it really was fun. They have bison, a camel, an alligator, elk, goats, an ostrich, a bear, and many other animals. What does everyone else think?

Let's talk about...Monkey Joe's!!!

Monkey Joe's

102 Westwood Shopping Center

Fayetteville, NC 28314

(910) 423-5637

I actually took my boys to this Monkey Joe's for the first time today. We were previously stationed at Fort Benning, and loved going to MJ's there. I love that it's clean, safe (they put wristbands on parents and kids), and that my 3 year old can run around and have fun! There's also lots of supervision from the employees (keeps the older kids from getting too rowdy), which is nice! What do you all think??

Why I'm making this blog....

Hello everyone! So, if you're reading this, we probably have something in common. You probably live in Fort Bragg/Fayetteville, NC, and I'd be willing to bet you're a Mom/Mom to be. I'm making this blog b/c I'm on a mission to get a list of all the things to do with kids in the area. I have two sons- a 3 year old, and a 6 month old. I'd also be interested in tracking sales in the area on children's things. So...we'll see how this goes. I'm not setting my expectations high, but if people join in, we could get something going. Please comment to add any input, but please try to keep it positive!