Encouraging Things to Do for Families
Den of Pin
Located near the heart of Vashon Island, Den of Pin is a retro haven for pinball enthusiasts of all ages, blending nostalgia with modern amusement. After relocating to Vashon Highway and 174th, this pinball arcade has captured the hearts of locals and visitors with its impressive collection of vintage and modern pinball machines, all available for play after an entry fee. Families can enjoy an afternoon flipping through history, where children are mesmerized by the colorful, flashing machines, and teenagers engage in competitive pinball action. The cozy booths offer a spot to relax and enjoy refreshments while discussing game strategies or listening to the fascinating stories from Mo, the friendly owner. Open until 8 or 9 PM, Den of Pin offers an enchanting evening escape that’s perfect for winding down after a day of island exploration.
Pop Pop Bottle Shop Vashon
Pop Pop Bottle Shop, located centrally on Vashon Island, is a gem for craft beer aficionados and families alike. With a vast selection of craft beers on tap and in cans, adults can savor distinct flavors while teens enjoy the adjacent ice cream shop and pinball games. The shop’s laid-back atmosphere is complemented by delicious offerings like loco Moco and spam musubi, making it a culinary hit with visitors. The family-friendly layout ensures that while adults relax, children have their share of fun next door, making it a balanced experience for family outings.
BARC
Burton Adventure Recreation Center (BARC) is situated at 10500 SW 228th St., Vashon, WA. BARC is a sports and recreation hub that offers many activities appealing to children and teenagers. The facility includes an indoor skate park, a disc golf course, and a new cement pump track, providing diverse options for active family fun. Kids and teens can skate, play disc golf, or explore the pump track under the safe supervision of staff, with all necessary safety gear provided. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, BARC serves as a fantastic spot for families to engage in sports while enjoying the outdoors.
Dockton Park
Dockton Park, situated on the eastern side of Maury Island, accessible via Dockton Road SW from Vashon Island’s main thoroughfare, is a family-friendly haven offering a multitude of outdoor activities. This scenic park features an expansive playground designed to captivate children’s imaginations and encourage active play, along with a marina and well-maintained picnic areas for relaxing family gatherings. Families can engage in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding in the sheltered waters, or enjoy a peaceful stroll along the picturesque waterfront trail. Additionally, the park is equipped with volleyball courts and a disc golf course, providing a variety of options for physical activity and fun in a beautiful natural setting. Dockton Park is an ideal destination for families seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst the island’s serene landscape.
Shinglemill Creek Preserve Hike
Families can embark on a nature-filled adventure along the lush, forested trails of Shinglemill Creek Preserve, located just off Vashon Highway via SW 156th Street. This tranquil preserve features a stunning waterfall and a serene creek winding through a richly diverse ecosystem. The moderate trail is ideal for family outings, enhanced by educational signage that delves into the area’s unique flora and fauna as well as the site’s historical significance. As you hike, learn about the native plant species, the role of the creek in the local ecology, and how this area has evolved over time. This engaging and scenic hike offers a perfect blend of education and natural beauty, suitable for all ages.
Vashon Community Library
Located conveniently at the junction of Vashon Highway and SW Bank Road, the Vashon Library is a central community hub on the island, offering a variety of enriching activities tailored for children. The library frequently hosts family-oriented events, including story times encouraging early literacy, math clubs enhancing numeracy skills, and unique exploratory sessions like the Curiosity Club, which delve into intriguing topics such as black light exploration. These programs are designed to stimulate young minds, promote educational growth, and provide a fun, interactive environment for learning. By participating, children on Vashon Island can enjoy a blend of education and entertainment, fostering a lifelong love of reading and discovery.
For those passionate about the outdoors or animals, organizations like Pony Club and 4-H provide enriching equestrian programs where teens can learn, compete, and grow. Skateboarding enthusiasts can head to the Burton Adventure Recreation Center, a well-maintained skate park perfect for honing skills and connecting with fellow skateboarders.
Social teens have great venues like Subway or Island Queen for relaxed hangouts with friends, while movie buffs can catch the latest films at the local theater. Creatively inclined teens can develop their artistic talents through painting, sculpture, and digital arts classes at the Blue Heron Education Center, fostering both skill enhancement and personal expression. Additionally, those interested in the performing arts can gain invaluable experience and build confidence by participating in local music and theater groups, such as Vashon Island’s Drama Dock or school band programs, integrating them into a vibrant creative community.
Discover a variety of engaging things to do on Vashon and nearby, perfect for explorers of all interests.