On Nov. 11, Fort Pulaski National Monument near Savannah, will offer free admission.

Fort Pulaski National Monument will be open 9AM- 6PM.

For more info visit www.nps.gov/fopu.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah. Learn more at www.nps.gov/fopu  and visit us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FortPulaskiNPS  and Twitter www.twitter.com/FortPulaskiNPS .

Upcoming Fee Free Days @ Fort Pulaski include:
2015 entrance fee-free days are:
• November 11: Veterans Day

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Other National parks in our area.
Please check with each park for operating hours and event schedules.

Fort Moultrie, Charleston
Fort Sumter National Monument
Cumberland Island National Seashore
Fort Frederica National Monument, St. Simons Is.

To see the complete list of parks participating in fee free days, click here. 

FOR MORE FREE CHILDREN’S EVENTS, VISIT OUR FREEBIES PAGE BY CLICKING HERE. 

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Junior Park Rangers

When you take kids to tour national parks, you never know how much they are getting out of the visit. Especially for those of us moms who aren’t exactly history experts.

Which is why you need to pick up the Junior Ranger booklets at the visitor centers of national parks you visit. The Junior Ranger program kids engage more during the visits.

Junior Ranger booklets have activities about the national parks for ages 5-12. Junior ranger books are free to any visitor and usually are available at the visitors’ centers. Often, similar programs with more advanced activities are also available for older kids. Just ask at the site’s visitor center.

While doing the activities, children enjoy earning a badge and a certificate.

Nearby national parks/monuments that have Junior Ranger programs include:
*Fort Pulaski National Monument, on U.S. 80 en route to Tybee Island. Info on the Fort Pulaski Junior Program here.
*Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie national monuments, Charleston, S.C. Info on these forts Junior Ranger program here.
*Cumberland Island National Seashore, Ga. More info here.
*Fort Frederica National Monument on St. Simons Island. Info on the Fort Frederica National Monument Junior Ranger Program here.
*Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon. Info on Ocmulgee’s National Monument Junior Ranger Program here.

Fort McAllister, a 1,725-acre Georgia state park in Richmond Hill, will host an event featuring megalodon artifacts suitable for all ages, 7PM Fri. Aug. 21 2015.

Local divers will tell their tales of diving for the teeth of the megalodon sharks that once swam in our coastal waters. This is a great opportunity to see these huge teeth as well as other fossils they find on their dives.

@ Fort McAllister State Historic Park Visitor’s Center, 3894 Fort McAllister Rd., Richmond Hill, Ga

COST: $2 per person, $5 park pass for cars

For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org.

Other upcoming Fort McAllister events include:
Come for old fashioned family fun, Civil War-era games and prizes @ Fort McAllister State Park
Sat. Sept. 5, 2015 10AM-4PM
Cost: $5-$8 plus $5 parking.
912-727-2339.

Crafting under the trees @ Fort McAllister State Park
A craft make-and-take for children ages 8 & older,
9AM Sat. Aug. 15 2015.
Cost: $3 per child and $5 park pass for cars
To reserve a spot, call 912.727.2339. For more information, call 912.727.2339 or email questions to FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org.

ABOUT FORT MCALLISTER:

Located south of Savannah on the banks of the Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister showcases the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. The earthworks were attacked seven times by Union ironclads but did not fall until 1864 — ending Gen. William T. Sherman’s “March to the Sea.”  Visitors can explore the grounds with cannons, a furnace, bombproof, barracks, palisades and more, while a Civil War museum contains artifacts, a video and gift shop.

For more information, visit www.gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister.

Labor Day Weekend 2015 kids programs @ Old Fort Jackson & Fort Pulaski in Savannah & various Georgia state parks include:

A Century of Sentries at Old Fort Jackson, Savannah
Sept 5-7
Bring the kids to Old Fort Jackson to participate in a variety of hands-on activities appropriate for all ages to learn about the daily life of the soldiers stationed at Fort Jackson. Activities include marching, battle reenactments, heavy artillery drill, and musket and cannon demonstrations. Learn about the many individuals and units of the of the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War that are part of the story of a Century of Sentries at Old Fort Jackson.
Old Fort Jackson
1 Fort Jackson Road
Savannah, GA 31404
912.232.3945

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Steam train rides @ Georgia State Railroad Museum, Sept. 4-6 2015
Train rides will be at 11AM, 11:30AM, 1PM, 2PM & 3PM Fri. Sept. 4 and Sat. Sept. 5
Sun. Sept. 6 train rides will be at 1PM, 2PM
655 Louisville Rd
Savannah, 31401
912.651.6823

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Living History at Fort Pulaski National Monument
Fort Pulaski returns to the summer & fall of 1861. Join Fort Pulaski as the 1st Georgia Volunteers garrison the fort with a living history weekend event. From company drill and inspections to artillery demonstrations, immerse yourself in a soldiers life as they live in the casemates of the fort, prepared to protect Savannah and the Confederacy.
Fort Pulaski, Fort Pulaski National Monument, U.S. Hwy. 80
9AM-5PM Sept. 5 & Sept. 6
Park Entrance Fee
Contact Name: Joel Cadoff
Contact Email: joel_cadoff@nps.gov
(912) 786-5787 X114. More details here.
Event Schedule Sat. Sept 5, 2015
9:30 am –Sick Call –examination of soldiers to be fit for duty
10:00 am –Morning Parade –Colors to be raised directly following
10:30 am –Infantry Drill
11:00 am –Musket Firing Demonstration
11:30 pm –Cannon Firing Demonstration
12:00 pm –Guided Fort Tour
1:00 pm –Formation of Soldiers
1:15 pm –Pay Call
1:45 pm –Musket Firing Demonstration
2:15 pm –Cannon Firing Demonstration
3:00 pm –Bayonet Drill
3:30 pm –Musket Firing Demonstration

Event Schedule: Sun. Sept. 6, 2015
9:30 am –Sick Call –examination of soldiers to be fit for duty
9:45 am –Morning Parade –Colors to be raised directly following
10:30 am –Church Call
11:30 am –Musket Firing Demonstration
12:00 pm –Guided Fort Tour
1:00 pm –Formation of soldiers
1:30 pm –Musket Firing Demonstration
2:00 pm –Mail Call
2:45 pm –Musket Firing Demonstration
3:00 pm –Guided Fort Tour

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Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah
Tools & skills that built a colony. See craft demonstrations such as woodworking, blacksmithing, cooking, spinning, flint knapping, leatherworking, woodsman skills, pewter casting and more.
Sat. Sept. 5- Mon. Sept. 7, 2015 10AM -4PM
Cost: $4.50-$10.
912-353-3023.

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Fort McAllister State Park – Richmond Hill, Ga
Come for old fashioned family fun, Civil War-era games, cavalry demos and prizes. Cannon & musket firings by reenactors. Nationally recognized reptile and amphibian expert, Jason Clark, will have his large trailer display of many native reptiles for you to view. At 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., he will present an informative program on snakes.
Sat. Sept. 5, 2015 10AM-4PM
Cost: $5 children, $8 adults (children younger than 6 are free) plus $5 parking.
912-727-2339 or email FortMcAllister.Park@gadnr.org

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Labor Day at Fort King George Historic Site, Darien, Ga.
Watch musket & cannon firings, see various jobs soldiers would “labor” on as part of their duties.
Mon. Sept. 7, 2015 10AM-4PM
Cost: $4.50-$7.50.
912-437-4770.

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Labor Day Commemoration @ Fort Morris Historic Site, Midway, Ga.
Commemorate Labor Day w/ hourly soldier talks, plus musket, cannon firings at this coastal fort.
Mon. Sept. 7, 2015 11AM-3PM
Cost: $3-$4.50.
912-884-5999.

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during June 2015 including free  Toddler Time for kids ages 2-4 and their caregivers at 10 AM Thursdays. Bring your child to enjoy stories, games and learning designed just for them. Each week there will be a different nature based theme.

Other free kids’ nature programs include:a feral hogs program, bird watching program, reptile show & more.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park each month, click here.

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FREE Parking Pass

Live Oak Public Libraries customers with valid library cards can borrow a Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites “Park Pass.” The passes are good for free parking or admission at any of the 63 parks statewide. For more information, click here. 

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Meet a Park Ranger

Join one of Skidaway Is. State Park rangers every Friday morning at 9:00 am to discuss all things Skidaway Island State Park. Learn what it’s like to be a ranger, what it takes to manage the park, or what the daily dealings/activities are. The possibilities are endless.

So come for great coffee, great discussion, and a great time.

See you at the Interpretive Center on Friday

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Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

We received lots of inquires from readers about the status of the newly renovated Forsyth Park spray pool, that was initially scheduled to open June 1.

The spray pool/splash zone opening has been delayed indefinitely pending review by the health department of the $48,000 renovation project. Here’s the update from the Coastal Health District: “As with any renovations or changes, plans must be submitted to the health department for review. We just received those plans recently and they are now under review.”

Hopefully, the newly renovated spray pool/splash zone – a favorite summertime spot for families with young children – will re-open soon. Meanwhile, other free Savannah parks spray pools where kids can enjoy a cool water experience under adult supervision include: Avondale, Hull Park, Forrest Hills, Paulsen, 38th Street Park, Savannah Gardens, and Victory Heights Parks. Learn more here.

For the 2015 Summer Season, spray pools will open June 1 through July 24, Monday through Friday, from 10 AM-3 PM. Hull Park spray pool hours (55th Street & Atlantic Avenue in Ardsley Park): Saturday, 10 AM to 3 PM in addition to regular weekday hours M-F, 10AM-3PM.

We’ll update our Event Calendar & this site when Forsyth Park spray pool does open. Forsyth’s hours will be: Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM; Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM; Sunday, noon to 6 PM.

FOR MORE SAVANNAH KIDS’ SUMMER ACTIVITIES, VISIT OUR SUMMER FUN GUIDE BY CLICKING HERE. 

Monkey Joe’s Savannah fun-filled inflatable play center has a brand new arcade system. (See photos of the new games that are now up & running by clicking here. )

The new arcade is just one more reason why Monkey Joe’s Savannah is the COOL place to play this summer.

Adults are always FREE and kids have UNLIMITED play.

Rain or shine, kids play at Monkey Joe’s any time. Monkey Joe’s has designated play areas for kids 2-12 years-old, featuring jumps, slides, climbing walls and games.

A separate Mini Monkey Zone for 3 year-olds and younger features softer and smaller obstacles to climb on, games, puzzles, and adult seating so you can supervise your little one’s play.

Pick up a frequent user card, reducing the price of regular admission up to 40 percent. This is only available to walk-in customers and does not apply to groups.

Stay updated about Monkey Joe’s deals & specials by liking Monkey Joe’s Savannah on Facebook here.

Hours of Operation:
Mon-Thu 10-7, Fri-Sat 10-9
Sun 11-7
Holiday Hours Vary
More details here.

Friday Parents’ Night Out

From 7PM-10PM leave your child at Monkey Joe’s Savannah and they will supervise and watch over your child while you can enjoy a childfree evening. For $20, children get 3 hours of play plus a slice of pizza and a drink. Call for more information:(912) 349-2528.

Weekly Specials

Military Monday: Half Price admission with a valid Military ID
T-Shirt Tuesday: Half price admission if you buy or wear an MJs shirt
Wacky Wednesday BOGO: Buy one child’s admission on Wednesdays and get one child’s admission free – all day long.
Thirsty Thursday: $1 fountain drinks all day
Fun Fridays: Family Fun Friday- $1 pizza slices all day

Party Packages

Monkey Joe’s Savannah offers a variety of party packages that cover all your party needs, including courtesy set-up and clean-up, invitations for your guests, a dedicated Monkey Joe’s party host, drinks, paper plates, cups, tablecloth and utensils.

Party packages accommodate up to 24 kids. If your party exceeds 24 kids, contact Monkey Joe’s for other options, including after-hour events.
You can bring your own birthday cake for a booked party only. All other outside food and drink is not allowed. (Ice cream cake is not permitted.)

See the different party packages offered by clicking here.

Monkey Joe’s Savannah, 311 Eisenhower Dr.,Savannah, GA 31406, (912) 349-2528,  www.monkeyjoes.com/locations/savannah/ Monkey Joe’s Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Hull Park Spray Pool

UPDATE:  Forsyth Park spray pool will not open June 1 as initially scheduled & is closed indefinitely.

Summer in Savannah means time for free spray pools in Savannah parks.

Kids can enjoy a cool water experience at the park under adult supervision.

Locations include: Avondale, Hull Park, Forrest Hills, Paulsen, 38th Street Park, Savannah Gardens, and Victory Heights Parks. Learn more here.

For the 2015 Summer Season, spray pools will open June 1 through July 24, Monday through Friday, from 10 AM-3 PM

Forsyth Park spray pool hours: Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM; Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM; Sunday, noon to 6 PM UPDATE:  Forsyth Park spray pool will not open June 1 as initially scheduled & is closed indefinitely according to the City of Savannah 311 info line.

Hull Park spray pool hours (55th Street & Atlantic Avenue in Ardsley Park): Saturday, 10 AM to 3 PM in addition to regular weekday hours M-F, 10AM-3PM.

FOR MORE FREE SAVANNAH KIDS’ SUMMER ACTIVITIES CLICK HERE.

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during May 2015 including free  Toddler Time for kids ages 2-4 and their caregivers at 10 AM Thursdays. Bring your child to enjoy stories, games and learning designed just for them. Each week there will be a different nature based theme.

Other free weekend kids’ nature programs include: Birds of Prey, hikes, a feral hogs program & more.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park each month, click here.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Come for an afternoon of food, games & fun, on the 2nd Saturday of each month, noon-2PM at Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah.

Cost $5 for lunch, $5 parking pass.

Please call 912.598.2300 to reserve a spot at least two days before to reserve your spot.

Upcoming Picnic in the Park Dates:
April 11 2015
May 9 2015
June 13 2015
July 11 2015
Aug. 8 2015
Sept. 12 2015

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during April 2015 including free  Toddler Time for kids ages 2-4 and their caregivers at 10 AM Thursdays. Bring your child to enjoy stories, games and learning designed just for them. Each week there will be a different nature based theme.

Other free weekend kids’ nature programs include: hikes, a feral hogs program, night sensory awareness & call of the wild hikes, campfire & s’mores evening & more.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park each month, click here.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Fort Pulaski National Monument in Savannah salutes veterans with special programs Nov. 8 & 9 2014 & free admission on Veterans Day Nov. 11.

November 8-9: Fort Pulaski National Monument will honor our nation’s veterans with a special living history event in the historic fort. The 48th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment will recreate many aspects of daily life at a major Civil War-era post.

A variety of programs will be offered throughout the weekend allowing visitors to learn about military inspections, mail calls, barracks life, and infantry drills. A special military salute to veterans will be offered at 4 p.m. on Saturday.

FREE admission Nov. 11: To commemorate Veterans Day, the National Park Service will waive all entrance fees. Savannah’s national park – Fort Pulaski National Monument – will be fee free Tuesday, November 11.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah. For more information, click here nps.gov/fopu or call (912) 786-5787.

Fort McAllister State Park in Richmond Hill Halloween Events include:

Candle Lantern Tour
Saturday, Oct 18, 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Fort McAllister State Park – Richmond Hill, GA
Experience the fort at night as you are guided into the past by candlelight. Guided walks will be held every half hour. $4.50-$7.50 912-727-2339.

BATS & CAMPFIRE
Let’s Get Batty With Sarah
Friday, Oct 24, 2014 6 PM
Join Ranger Sarah for an informative talk about bats. Learn why we love our bat community here at the park. Take a walk to watch as they emerge from their houses and head out for an evening of hunting insects. Then return to the visitors center for a campfire. Great event for the whole family. Bring a flashlight and a chair for campfire time. $3 plus $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

The Haunting of Savage Island & Reverse Trick or Treating
Saturday, Oct 25, 2014 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Halloween comes to the campground. We invite our campground guests to decorate their campsite and wear costumes. The Rangers will drive through the campground and judge the campsites for creativity. We will be doing reverse trick or treating. You remain at your site and we bring candy to you. Then gather for a bonfire and ghost stories. Donations accepted $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Location:
Fort McAllister State Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, 31324

FOR MORE HALLOWEEN KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE. 

Have your kids experienced Eurobungy Trampolines in Savannah Mall in the Dillards Court next to Ruby Tuesdays?

They can seriously jump, 10, 15, 20 feet in the air. Some do flips. Or the little ones can simply jump & jump.

Click here a coupon for Buy One, Get One free all day Mondays-Thursdays & until 3 PM Fridays – perfect for those of you with more than one child who wants to jump.  To obtain the coupon, click here.

Open mall hours: Mon-Sat: 10 AM-9 PM, Sun:Noon- 6 PM.

Gift certificates available.

Eurobungy Savannah, inside Savannah Mall, 14045 Abercorn St. Savannnah, email ruberman@eurobungy.com, On Facebook here.

Spend the day “playground hopping,” visiting some of our top picks for playgrounds in the Greater Savannah, Ga. area & Hilton Head Is./Beaufort, S.C. area or just picking one and spending the day there.

Here are some of the best playgrounds in Savannah, Hilton Head Is., Beaufort, S.C.

Forsyth Park
Two playgrounds with restrooms, café, spray pool, paved sidewalk for walking, biking. Pack a lunch (or eat at the café) & spend the day in this landmark, historic park. Check out the gated fragrant garden for the blind if it’s unlocked, the park fountains. Kids can dance to their heart’s content on the bandshell’s canopied stage. Toddler playground at Forsyth Park (next to the Visitors’ Center cafe) includes a rocking toucan
700 Drayton Street, Savannah 31401

Mother Mathilda Beasley Park:
Two playgrounds with new equipment, large grass-covered field, a baseball field, multi-purpose trail and dog park, picnic tables. Drawbacks include lack of shade & the beautiful new pavilion with restrooms is often locked & inaccessible.
500 E. Broad Street Savannah, 31401

Davant
Small playground behind Colonial Cemetery in Savannah. Picnic tables. No restrooms
Lincoln St. / E Perry Lane Savannah, 31401

Baldwin Park
Small fenced playground in residential area. Drawbacks: No restrooms.
E. 41st St. / Atlantic Ave., Savannah 31401

Daffin Park
Two playgrounds, lake, walking trail, picnic area, tennis courts, fields.
1500 E Victory Drive, Savannah 31404

Hull Park
Playground, sheltered picnic area, spray pool, baseball field. A great, popular neighborhood playground with a merry-go-round perfect for playdates. Drawback: no restrooms and not a lot of shade.
55th St./Atlantic Avenue, Savannah 31405

Lake Mayer
Playground includes three climbing structures complete with climbing walls, tunnels; swing sets, baby swing sets, swivel seat, twirling toy, see-saw, mulch; picnic tables, two pavilions available for rent, tennis courts, lighted basketball courts, 1.5 jogging/bike paved trail with fitness course, lake, boat ramps, restrooms, baseball field, lighted hockey rink, dog exercise area.
1850 E. Montgomery Crossroads Savannah, 31406

Isle of Hope
Playground, basketball court
Cornus Dr Savannah, 31406

Skidaway Island State Park playground in Savannah.
Playground, Picnic Tables. Free admission. $5 parking fee.
52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah. 31411

Wilmington Island playground
Shaded playground, covered pavilion, restrooms
Cohen Ave at Walthour Rd Savannah, 31410

Memorial Park Playground, behind Tybee Is. Library, Tybee Is.
Fenced playground, bath rooms, covered picnic area, faux pirate ship, see-saw whale rocker, climbing wall, swings.
405 Butler Ave., Tybee Island 31328

Jaycee Park Playground
Fenced playground, within walking distance to the beach. Drawbacks: No bathrooms.
27 Van Home Ave., Tybee Island, 31328.

Scott Stell Playground
Playground, restrooms, three pavilions available for rent, tennis courts, lighted basketball courts, jogging/bike paved trail w/ fitness course, baseball fields, dog exercise area, volleyball play areas, archery range
195 Scott Stell Community Park Savannah, 31419

J.F. Gregory, Richmond Hill
Fenced playground, picnic tables, restrooms, covered pavilions available for rent, 335 acre multi-use recreational area with a lake, walking trail, birding tower, and two restored Henry Ford era homes.
521 Cedar St, Richmond Hill, 31324

Tom Triplett Park, Pooler
Playground, two Pavilions available for rent, conference room available for rent, tennis courts, lake, 1.5 jogging/bike paved track with fitness course, restrooms, dog exercise, disc golf course
Tom Triplett Rd Pooler, 31322

West Chatham YMCA playground
Chatham County’s first play facility compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and features a music station, a tractor, a climbing wall and therapeutic swings for special-needs kids.
off Pooler Parkway between the YMCA and Pooler’s new municipal recreation complex

Hilton Head Is/Beaufort, S.C.

Gregg Russell Playground in Harbour Town, Hilton Head Is.
The Gregg Russell Playground at Harbour Town is one of the top playgrounds in our area.
Fenced, somewhat shaded playground that includes a treehouse; swings; numerous slides; lots of climbing bars, jungle gym bars, monkey bars. Just outside the fenced-playground is a water fountain; picnic tables; bathrooms; and plenty of spots for lunch, drinks or coffee and of course, the famous Harbour Town lighthouse which is open to climb for a free plus $5 Sea Pines gate fee.
Harbour Town, Hilton Head, SC 29928

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park Playground, Beaufort, S.C.
Playground with hardwood mulch, restrooms a stage for performances, a pavilion for displays and a grassed amphitheater for picnicking, frisbee or simple relaxing. Kids can watch fishermen showing their skills on the dock in front of the playground
1010 Bay Street, Beaufort, S.C. 29902

Pigeon Point Park playground, Beaufort, S.C.
Age appropriate playground equipment that includes merry-go-around, restrooms, picnic tables, water fountains, age appropriate playground equipment, large oak trees that provide shade
Pigeon Point Road Beaufort, SC 29902

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ ACTIVITIES, CLICK HERE.

Guided Tours @ Fort Pulaski National Monument

Starting May 31, 2014

Fort Pulaski National Monument offers guided tours at the following times:
Sunday through Friday: 10:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.
Saturday: 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.

Through the tour, visitors will see one of the nation’s finest examples of a seacoast fortification, while learning about the construction and engineering of Fort Pulaski, Civil War technology, rifled cannons, general fort life, and the Battle for Fort Pulaski in 1862. Tours meet inside the fort and usually last 45 minutes to an hour.

More info here. 

Junior Park Rangers

When you take kids to tour national parks, you never know how much they are getting out of the visit. Especially for those of us moms who aren’t exactly history experts.

Which is why you need to pick up the Junior Ranger booklets at the visitor centers of national parks you visit. The Junior Ranger program kids engage more during the visits.

Junior Ranger booklets have activities about the national parks for ages 5-12. Junior ranger books are free to any visitor and usually are available at the visitors’ centers. Often, similar programs with more advanced activities are also available for older kids. Just ask at the site’s visitor center.

While doing the activities, children enjoy earning a badge and a certificate.

Nearby national parks/monuments that have Junior Ranger programs include:
*Fort Pulaski National Monument, on U.S. 80 en route to Tybee Island. Info on the Fort Pulaski Junior Program here.
*Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie national monuments, Charleston, S.C. Info on these forts Junior Ranger program here.
*Cumberland Island National Seashore, Ga. More info here.
*Fort Frederica National Monument on St. Simons Island. Info on the Fort Frederica National Monument Junior Ranger Program here.
*Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon. Info on Ocmulgee’s National Monument Junior Ranger Program here.

You’re invited to Splash Fest 2014 at Savannah Children’s Museum , Saturday, July 26 2014, 9 AM-2 PM.

Join Savannah Children’s Museum for fun water-based programs & activities.

Last year this was Savannah Children’s Museum most highly attended special weekend.  This year they’re going all out again with fun ways to keep cool and beat the heat – art activities, science activities, and, of course, WATER activities.

All activities are included with membership or daily admission.

Featuring:
Water Wonders all day!
10:30 Story Time
11:30 Creative Crafts
12:30 Super Science
1:30 Story Time

Bathing suits may be worn under clothing. You many want to bring a change of clothing and a towel for your child. Since shoes are required, it’s highly recommend that kids don water-safe shoes to protect their feet.

Admission is $7.50 per person ages
1 and older and free for members. Summer Museum hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 2 PM.

Savannah Children’s Museum is at 655 Louisville Rd., Savannah, 31401.

Don’t miss the FREE late summer family stargazing event @ Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens (formerly called The Bamboo Farm and Coastal Gardens ) in Savannah: Gazing in the Garden!

The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens in conjunction with the Oglethorpe Astronomical Association invite you to a night of stargazing in the Garden Saturday Aug. 30 8-10 PM. High-powered telescopes will be set up for observation, but you are welcome to bring your own. Free & open to the public.

Before the star-gazing, you’re also invited to a free showing of a classic science-fiction film “The Day of the Triffids” starting at 7:30 in the Annex educational building. Be prepared for less-than-ideal acting and effects in the movie, but know telescope views of the rising moon and stars await you on the Great Lawn.

Once the sun sets, join the group on the Great Lawn to gaze upward with the help of telescopes set up by the Association.  Feel free to bring food, lawn chairs. Alcoholic beverages, pets and tobacco products are prohibited

Free and open to the public. This is a great family event! More details here.

Here’s a list of children’s books on astronomy:

“Night Sky Atlas” by Robin Seagell
“Astronomy” by Kristen Lippincott
“Black Holes & Other Space Oddities” by Alex Barnett
“Space” by Simon Holland
“The Solar System: An A-Z Guide” by Christina Wilsdon
“Cosmic Light Shows” by Bobbie Kalman & April Fast
“Find the Constellations” by H.A. Rey
“The Stars: A New Way to See Them” by H.A. Rey

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens (Formerly The Bamboo Farm and Coastal Gardens), 2 Canebrake Road, Savannah, GA. 31419. Please enter the gate on US Hwy. 17. Please call 912-921-5460 for information, http://bamboo.caes.uga.edu/, On Facebook here

(Note: “Night Skies – Telescopes at the Tybee Pier and Pavilion” are hosted on the second Friday of each month by the Oglethorpe Astronomical Association at sunset. View the night sky through high-powered telescopes, weather permitting. Free. (912) 401-8634 or e-mail oaadir@kwbell.net.)

Get more out of your visits to state parks & national monuments.

This summer kids can get a limited edition Civil War badge from Georgia State Parks. Georgia State Parks and Historic sites are commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War with this limited addition Junior Ranger badge.

Children are required to complete a certain number of activities such as visiting certain state parks, attend special events, find historic markers et. For ages 7 and older. Details here.

FREE Junior Ranger booklets at National Parks

This state park program is similar to the Junior Ranger program available at National Parks & Historic sites like Fort Pulaski in Savannah, Cumberland Island, Ga. and Fort Frederica on St. Simons Island. For more information about the Junior Ranger program click here.

Located south of Savannah on the banks of the Ogeechee River, Fort McAllister state park showcases the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. Visitors can explore the grounds with cannons, a furnace, bombproof, barracks, palisades and more, while a Civil War museum contains artifacts, a video and gift shop.

A large picnic area offers river views and playgrounds. There’s also a nature trail.

SOLDIER PROGRAMS: Offered Tuesdays through Saturdays beginning at 1 p.m. Learn about the American Civil War, soldier life, medicine, infantry, weapons and more from staff historians.

Fort McAllister State Park
Park Hours: 7AM-10PM
Office and Museum Hours: 8AM-5PM
$5 parking. Annual passes available.
http://gastateparks.org/FortMcAllister
Historic Site Admission:
– $7.50 Adults
– $6.50 Seniors (62+)
– $4.50 Youth (6-17)
– $2.00 Child (under 6)
Group rates available with advance notice.

Summer kids’ events

*WEEKLY SOLDIER PROGRAMS: Offered Tuesdays through Saturdays beginning at 1 p.m. Learn about the American Civil War, soldier life, medicine, infantry, weapons and more from staff historians.

Rowe’s Guide to the Great Outdoors
Saturday, Aug 16, 2014 1 PM to 3 PM
If you’ve ever wanted to know more about almost every plant or animal on the Georgia Coast, then you’ll want to stop by for a 3 mile day hike on our trail with Master Naturalist Rowe. $5 in addition to the Parking fee $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Labor Day Festival
Saturday, Aug 30, 2014 9 AM to 4 PM
You deserve a little R&R for all your hard work, so gather the family up, kick back and enjoy yourselves at our Labor Day Festival! Visitors who wish to only use the Day Use outside of the fort will require a $5 ParkPass. Fort and museum visitors need to pay for admission at the museum when they arrive. $4.50-$7.50 912-727-2339.

“Incoming!” with Shuman’s Artillery
Saturday, Sep 13, 2014 10 AM to 3 PM
Civil War History Event: Listen and learn about the use of artillery in the Civil War with our local expert Eddie Shuman. From mortars to howitzers and more, Shuman’s talk on artillery will be a blast. Date and time subject to change. $4.50-$7.50 912-727-2339.

Celebrate Memorial Day with a reflection on American battles, touring historic sites.

Below are Georgia forts, museums and battlefields near Savannah. For directions and admission fees, visit GeorgiaStateParks.org.

·Fort King George State Historic Site, Darien
From 1721 until 1736, this fort was the southern outpost of the British empire in North America. Climb into the reconstructed cypress blockhouse, explore the palisaded earthen fort and tabby ruins, tour the museum. Be sure to hike the pretty nature trail following the river and marsh. For those wishing to take a mini staycation while in the area, campsites and cabins are nearby at Fort McAllister and Skidaway Island state parks.

·Fort Morris State Historic Site, Midway
This earthen fort on the Medway River protected Georgia against the British in both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. A museum describes the colonial port of Sunbury, and a nature trail and picnic sites are available. For a holiday getaway, cabins and campsites are found nearby at Fort McAllister and Skidaway Island state parks.

·Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill
This beautiful park south of Savannah marked the end of General Sherman’s March to the Sea and is the best-preserved earthwork fortification of the Confederacy. On Saturday, May 24, watch a program about Civil War soldiers, as well as musket and cannon firings. Nestled among giant live oaks and Spanish moss, this park is also a great place for camping, hiking, fishing and boating. Cabins overlook the forest and marsh.

Kids can earn a limited edition Civil War badge. Details here.

Georgia State Park now offers gift cards. Think perfect gift for golfers, hikers, anglers, campers, history buffs or anyone who enjoys being outdoors. Details here.

As part of National Park Week 2014 (April 19 – 27), Fort Pulaski National Monument in Savannah will hold special Junior Ranger Day activities on Saturday, April 26 2014, starting at 10 AM

Participants at Fort Pulaski can earn a special Junior Ranger Day certificate and patch by participating in a variety of experiences to learn more about the National Park Service and Fort Pulaski National Monument. Activities will include historic weapons drills, like those conducted by the Civil War soldiers that once lived and worked at Fort Pulaski.

Children will be able to do special activity sheets to earn National Park Service Civil War trading cards and explore the park while completing the park Junior Ranger program and earning a Junior Ranger badge.

Saturday, April 26 – National Junior Ranger Day

10 AM Guided Fort Tour
11:30 AM Historic Weapon Demonstration
11:45 AM Junior Ranger Drill
1 PM Guided Fort Tour
1:30 PM Junior Ranger Coloring Activity
2:30 PM Historic Weapon Demonstration
2:45 PM Junior Ranger Drill

Fort Pulaski National Monument is on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah, www.nps.gov/fopu  tel (912) 786-5787.

Sunday, April 27, 2014
5 to 7 pm

At the usual height of the strawberry-picking season, join Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens in Savannah for this 20th annual traditional Sunday supper at the Lakeside Pavilion.

The meal culminates with a fresh strawberry shortcake dessert from fruits harvested from the field at CGBG. This year’s supper is by Chef Nick Mueller. Silent auction tables offer a wide array of items, and all proceeds benefit the Friends of the Coastal Gardens — the non-profit supporter of the expansion efforts at the botanical gardens. Cost is $30 per person, $15 per child age 12 and under.

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens (Formerly The Bamboo Farm and Coastal Gardens), 2 Canebrake Road, Savannah, GA. 31419. Please enter the gate on US Hwy. 17. Please call 912-921-5460 for information, http://bamboo.caes.uga.edu/, On Facebook here

May 10: FREE Bike Rodeo

Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah will host an educational event for children to practice bike skills and learn how to safely navigate roads and traffic. Skidaway’s Bike Rodeo is in partnership with the Savannah Bicycle Campaign.

A bike rodeo is a fun, educational event for children to practice bike skills and learn how to safely navigate roads and traffic. Kids will tackle different stations, each with a different game or challenge. For example, riders might weave between traffic cones to practice balance skills or have a “slow race” where the last one across the finish line wins. Please remember, by Georgia law, all kids under 16 years of age must wear a helmet.

The event is May 10 from 10 am to 1 pm and is free with your $5 parking pass.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Cswy, Savannah , 31411 , http://gastateparks.org/SkidawayIsland

FOR MORE FREE SPRING 2014 KIDS’ EVENTS  IN THE SAVANNAH AREA, CLICK HERE.

Skidaway Island State Park playground

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park in April 2014 to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays including free Toddler Time for kids ages 2-4 and their caregivers at 10 AM Thursdays. Bring your child to enjoy stories, games and learning designed just for them. Each week there will be a different nature based theme.

Other free nature kids’ programs happening in April 2014 include fire building 101, bird hikes, night sensory hike, toads & turtles, reptile show & an Easter Blast festival with an egg hunt.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during April 2014, click here.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.