Things to Do with Grandkids in Burlington, IA: Fun for All Ages
Burlington, Iowa, is a small town with just over 23,500 residents, but it's got its own charm. It's next to the Mississippi River, which means there are plenty of outdoor activities. Plus, the shopping choices aren't bad either.
Those who live in Burlington may already be familiar with all these things, so we've said nothing new. But you can still get stumped on things to do with grandkids when they come to visit. In that case, we've got you covered. Read on for Burlington family activities you can partake in!
Relax at Crapo Park
When it comes to grandparent-grandchild outings, how could you forget to put park visits on the list? When the little ones are in town, walk them over to Crapo Park for a nice and relaxing time.
The park stretches across 85 acres, but you don't have to explore it all at once. In fact, you should leave various parts undiscovered so you and your family have new things to see every time they visit.
Crapo Park has scenic walking trails that take you along the Mississippi River, giving you gorgeous views. There are also beautiful gardens that make you appreciate greenery even more. All along the way, you'll find historical sites too, such as a log cabin from the city's early days.
When the kids get restless, they can play to their hearts' content at the large playground on site. Then, you can have a quaint picnic once they're tired.
Enjoy the Outdoors at Dankwardt Park
Another park you can bring your grandchildren to is Dankwardt Park. It's for more active families, as there are several fun sports you can participate in.
Dankwardt Park has the following amenities available:
- Big playground
- Disc golf course
- Tennis courts
- Swimming pool
Needless to say, if your grandkids have extra energy to burn, then this is the place they need to go. What's great is that this park is connected to Crapo Park, so you can go to both in one trip if you wish.
Make a Splash at FunCity
One of the most kid-friendly places in Burlington is FunCity. As you can guess from its name, this venue is the perfect all-in-one entertainment spot to bring children of all ages.
FunCity has the following activities that will provide hours of fun:
- Arcade
- Go-karts
- Laser tag
- Bowling
- Mini-golf
The most fun part of FunCity is Huck's Harbor Water Park. When it's hot in the summer, everyone can put on their bathing suits and cool off while splashing around.
Depending on your fitness level, you can either join in or sit on the sidelines to watch your grandkids. If you decide on the former, a wearable health monitor can be great for keeping track of how you're doing.
Explore the Twists and Turns of Snake Alley
Snake Alley is perhaps the most iconic site in Burlington. It's also known as the "Crookedest Street in the World," and it'll definitely be a pleasant stop for an afternoon stroll.
This historic landmark features a winding brick road that's very similar to the one on Lombard Street in San Francisco. There are very sharp turns, and if you and your grandkids follow along, you'll have a dizzy yet exciting time!
Not only is this a fantastic spot for photos, but you and the grandkids will get some exercise in too. They can even roll down the road; just make sure to keep a watchful eye out.
Watch a Burlington Bees Baseball Game
An excellent way to celebrate Intergenerational Day is to take your grandchildren to a Burlington Bees baseball game. This can be especially exciting if everyone shares a love for the sport and/or the team!
Viewing the sport itself can already be a treat, but there's more to this experience. You can explore the stadium to appreciate its architecture, and there are plenty of treats to snack on during the game. Also, there's between-inning entertainment, so you can rest easy knowing that the little ones won't get bored.
Visit the Port of Burlington Welcome Center
The Port of Burlington is located along the riverfront, which means you'll get stunning views as you approach it. Your grandchildren will love spotting riverboats, and you can take them on the nearby walking paths for some physical activity and fresh air.
When you've had your fill of the outside environment, you can step inside the visitor center. Regardless of how much you and the kids already know about Burlington, there's certainly more to discover about the city's history and attractions.
The welcome center has displays on local wildlife and the Mississippi River, providing an interactive educational experience for everyone. They also have a small gift shop where you can pick up cute souvenirs for the kids.
Step Back in Time at Garrett-Phelps House Museum
The Garrett-Phelps House Museum is an outstanding venue for those who are interested in history and is part of the senior-friendly attractions that the town has. It offers you a glimpse of life in the 1800s, starting with its outside facade. This museum used to be a Victorian home, and it showcases:
- Antique furniture
- Artifacts
- Period decor
As you walk through and uncover Burlington's past, this is the perfect opportunity to reflect on your life in the town. Regale your grandkids with past anecdotes and help them learn more about their heritage.
Admission is free, so consider making a donation during your visit. You can also book tours at a nominal fee.
Start With These Things to Do With Grandkids
This list of things to do with grandkids in Burlington only scratches the surface. The truth is that you can have so much intergenerational fun in this town, and there are numerous hidden gems awaiting you.
So make every visit count and enrich your grandchildren's lives with the city's attractions. They'll be grateful to make treasured memories with their loved one, and you'll have many stories to tell in the future.
Are you searching for assisted living in Burlington, Iowa? Then get in touch with us today. The team at Addington Place of Burlington treats all residents like family and provides personalized and compassionate care.