Hochatown

A gem mining sluice and dinosaur-themed mini golf spot in Hochatown that kids absolutely love. Sift through the 66-foot sluice to find gemstones like emeralds and garnets plus arrowheads and fossils. The bigger mining bags are worth the upgrade because kids treat the rocks they find like trophies for the entire trip. Combine it with a round of dino mini golf and you have the perfect low-key first activity on arrival day or a fun break between bigger outdoor adventures.

A rescue center and petting zoo where kids can interact with goats, rabbits, ducks, donkeys, hedgehogs, and even some exotic animals like coatimundis and bearded dragons. About 95% of the animals are rescued or rehabilitated which gives the visit an extra layer of meaning for older kids who appreciate the mission. The animals are used to little hands which makes the experience comfortable even for toddlers. It only takes about an hour but for kids under 6 it is often the highlight of the whole trip.

A massive 29000-square-foot wooden maze that is way bigger than it looks from the parking lot. Families collect stamps at all five towers hidden inside the maze which turns the whole thing into a competition that kids and adults get genuinely fired up about. Split into teams and race to hit all five checkpoints first. The course changes periodically so repeat visitors still get a challenge. It is one of those perfect outdoor activities that gets everyone moving and laughing without anyone complaining about being tired.