Bring the kids, embrace your inner child and have a blast!
blog post by Ilana Cameron
When I started to research for this piece I thought I had an idea of the options available for kids visiting the Creston Valley and surrounding area. The reality is that there is much wider array of delightful, interesting and wonderful options for those looking for something a little more structured to do while visiting the Creston Valley Kootenay Lake Route.
We've got programs through our public organizations such as the Creston Public Library or our recreation centre, or through private businesses that cater to out of town visitors just like you. Drop your kids off for swimming lessons, do an art project with them at the Art Barn Studio, or explore the Creston Valley Wildlife Management area on a guided canoe trip. That's just a drop in the bucket.
Take a peek at our list of what we found, the variety of options will amaze you!
Budget: $15-$25
Ages: 4+
Group: 1 on 1 / Minimum 4 for a class
Beth Swallwell has created something special at the Art Barn Studio, not only is the space beautiful and inviting but it's brimming with seemingly limitless possibilities for creative instruction and play in a wide array of mediums. There truly is something creative for everyone — create a string art piece or play with paper clay, learn to quilt or learn how to do an acrylic pour.
Beth has classes specifically for young children like Sensory Play which is designed to stimulate the senses and encourage scientific inquiry while engaging your child's imagination. Ever hear of a suspension swing? Well the Art Barn has one so you'll have to come and find out what it is!
Contact Beth directly at 250-428-1814 or visit her website to see all the options and to book your activity.
Budget: Entry by Donation / Paddle tours $10-$12 per person
Ages: 3+
Check out their program guide for a complete list of all the programs and activities they offer throughout the summer. Here is a sample of some of what you can get up to at the Discovery Centre.
Animal Dress-Up: Transform yourself into a real or invented animal with face painting, crafts, games and more and learn to adapt to your environment. Includes guided walk in the wetland. Fun for kids and families of all ages.
Family Fun days: Saturdays are family fun days at the wildlife centre. Drop anytime between 10-3 PM for different nature themed activities throughout the summer.
Where: 219 Devon Street, Creston BC
Budget: $3-$4 ($10 a family, great deal!)
Ages: All Ages
One of my favourite events at the Museum is the movie under the stars. Enjoy some of your favourite films in the courtyard, a great setting for an evening out with family and friends. Contact the museum for updates on showings.
"If you stop by you never know what we'll get you into, apple bobbing or some other historical old-time fun." Says museum director Tammy Bradford. Ask a local with visiting grandchildren and they will agree, "Go over to the Museum and hang out, it's always great. Our youngest grand-kid loves to look at the model train exhibit. Or go for a private tour."
There is often something going on at the Creston Museum. If it's not already scheduled, they are happy to make something happen just for you and your group.
(we just call it the Rec Centre)
Budget: $4-$7 ($15.40 a family)
Ages: All Ages
Who doesn't like to relax at the pool? You can even take turns working out at the fitness centre while the kids make a splash in the lazy river.
This year they are offering a number of new camps including a Visual & Performing Arts Camp, Outdoor Adventure Camp, a girls only Science camp called GEMS n’ S.T.E.M and a boys only camp called SPORTS n’ S.T.E.M. They also have Farm to Table cooking classes for kids, swimming lessons, junior lifeguard camps on the lake and drop-in bubble soccer.
Check out the current Leisure Guide for the full meal deal, they really have something for every age and interest, whether you are visiting for a day, a week or the whole summer.
Where: 531 16 Ave South, Creston, BC
Budget: Free
Ages: All Ages
There are comfortable chairs, friendly staff, ipads, public computers, free movie matinees, author talks and an outdoor garden. The Library is open 10 AM-6 PM, Tuesday - Saturday (closed Sunday/Monday).
Every Thursday is Family Storytime at 10:30 AM. It's a chance to grow your child's love of stories with other kids and caregivers, no registration required.
Have an avid read on your hands? Be sure to ask about their summer reading club.
A Berry Sweet Day
Where: various u-pick farms in the valley, check this link!
Budget: $5+ depending on how many berries you want to pick!
Ages: All ages
Head to a U-pick farm, work together to glean all of the berries your fingers can find! Make it a fun game, race to see who fills their bucket first and see who can find the biggest berry. Afterward, everyone can eat them fresh, freeze for later, bake a pie, or try your hand together at making jam, kids love mushing up berries!
