A number of years ago someone told me that Perry Farrell from Jane's Addiction used to bring his kids from LA to visit Fairyland. Makes a lot of sense when trying to describe this place. It dated but extremely quirky in a good way. It's got some concrete play structures that were definitely made before there were codes and rules and such on how to build play structures (aka kinda dangerous and cool looking). Not so sure the kiddo appreciates this place in the way I do thus my 3 star rating. Still worth rotating into toddler weekends. Warning to curious adults - you HAVE to bring a child with you to get in. This prevented child-less me from going years back.

Habitot is like a cool basement for toddlers. It's somewhat dark but full of cool things - water tables, tumbling area, dress-up, etc. Compared though to Studio Grow and Bay Area Discovery Museum it feels like, well, a basement. Still a good place to bring a toddler on a rainy or cold day since you can sit in one place for quite a while as your child runs around but not one I would get a membership at. One cool thing they have there is a free toy lending library for members. Now THAT'S a good idea.

Perfect rainy day in Seattle: 1) Vivace Espresso stand on Broadway. 2) Bring the family to the Aquarium - great renovation since the time I was a kid. Not as big as Monterey but in a way nicer - not quite the towering concrete monstrosity that is Monterey. Also not nearly as crowded. This was our son's first experience at an aquarium. He was only four months old but seemed to really enjoy it. A world of wonder. 3) Ivar's fish and chips and chowder for lunch. 4) Get home in time for naps. 5) Vivace espresso...

For a few bucks a head and a tad of imagination you get access to what feels like a private pool on an off day. Meaning - great lawn area, uncrowded adult and kiddie pool and the hot Walnut Creek sunshine. My wife and I have gone here since our childless days and couldn't wait to bring our little guy there last summer. His opinion-squeals of delight. This summer will be even more fun now that he can walk. Oooh, bring on the sun.

Talk about love hate. I love/hate Berkeley in the exact same way that I love/hate Studio Grow. I love the thought and care put into this indoor "playground" suited for toddlers. I hate how crowded it gets. I hate how some parents ignore their children while they are at Studio Grow creating kids that grab and hit and are generally cranky because they should probably be napping or at least need the interaction of their missing parent. So, if you can hang with Berkeley, are willing to shell out the relatively expensive admission and have a toddler who is bursting with energy get to Studio (as our 20 months calls it) now!