Kid Friendly Activities

I’m excited to welcome a guest blogger on the InnSide Nevada City’s blog. Laura Hazelton from Hazel Moon Photography, a natural light photographer with three kids who specializes in maternity, birth, newborn, and family photography.  

Looking for something fun to do with your littles while you’re in Nevada City? We’re lucky to live in a place with so many amazing things to do with kiddos! Below are some of our favorite things to do, and best of all, they’re walking distance from downtown Nevada City, and they’re (almost) all free!

Downtown Garden Walk– If you want to see some amazing gardens, you don’t have to go very far! Make a loop by walking up East Broad street, down North Pine Street, and complete the loop by taking a right on Cottage Street. My kids and I love to take this stroll at any time of year, but it’s especially beautiful all through the spring as flowers bloom! Our local residents take pride in their yards, and there is always something fun to see.

Play at Pioneer Park– Pioneer Park is a favorite for us. Whether you’re looking for a playground, a picnic spot, or an open space to run, Pioneer has everything you’d need. If you get hot, head over to the creek and dip your feet in to cool down.

Deer Creek Tribute Trail– If you’re visiting Pioneer Park, take the Deer Creak trail back to down and stroll through the cool shady forest. It’s a little bit of nature tucked away in town. If your little ones can handle a longer hike, follow the trail out-of-town again and visit the suspension bridge. This is always a big hit if your littles like a thrill!

Library– If the weather isn’t great, or you need a cool place to relax, the Madelyn Helling Library is the perfect place to spend a few hours. There is a large, open children’s area with lots of seating for parents to relax. Read a book with your kids, attend story time with a librarian, or come for Lego hour.

Hirshman’s Pond– Just a short walk from downtown, you’ll find this gem or a trail. Sunlight filters through tall trees and a short .4 mile walk will take you to Hirshman’s Pond. There are some great rocks that my children love to climb, or just find a picnic spot and relax. You can follow the trail farther for 2 more miles if you’re up for a longer hike. This is a favorite trail with my kids for biking.

Ice Cream at Treats– When we need to cool down with a treat, our favorite spot is Treats. This tiny spot tucked away downtown is the perfect place to cool down. They feature unique flavors, homemade ice cream with local ingredients, vegan options, and dairy free sorbets- there is something for everyone here.

Thanks Laura for sharing your top six kid friendly activities in downtown Nevada City.  You can find more of Laura’s work on her website, Hazel Moon Photography or her Facebook page.  And to celebrate all the fun kid activities, the InnSide Nevada City blog has five $5 gift certificates to Treats to giveaway, please post a comment on your favorite downtown Nevada City activity to do with children and I’ll announce the winners on Wednesday, May 11th.