Vancouver, WA

Summer’s sunshine is still hanging around, but with school back in session, it’s becoming clear those sunny days are numbered. So where can you go when the cold fronts arrive and the rains come down? Add Washington Square Mall to your list of rainy day outings.

Whether or not you want to spend money, there’s something for everyone. Personally, I’m trying to save more and spend at least a little less, so the play area is the perfect way for my two-year-old daughter and me to spend an hour.

You can park your stroller right outside the play area; just make sure you take any valuables with you when you enter. This play area is intended for the little ones, probably up to about age 4 or 5, and measures around 15 or 20 square yards, with shoe cubbies and padded seating all around for parents. There is also only one entrance/exit so it’s not difficult to make sure your child stays within its boundaries.

                                   
The play area is cute and colorful, and thoroughly padded for soft landings. It is designed to be a Northwest scene, complete with soft rivers to follow, logs to crawl on and through, butterflies, flowers and frogs to sit on. There is also a boat to practice climbing in and out of, plus a bridge to walk up and slide down. The centerpiece of the display, however, is an impressive model of Mt. Hood. This features a tunnel through which to crawl, but the main draw is climbing to its top and sliding down the sides. I’m always on alert to make sure no one slides down onto my daughter, but in the few times we’ve visited I’ve never seen anyone get hurt. And again, every structure is made of kids-safe plastic-coated foam.

                                   
The play area can get crowded, but the kids don’t seem to mind and most are full of smiles the whole time. The only time I’ve heard any complaints is when it’s time to leave so plan on doing the “five more minutes” routine!

When you are finished playing, if you choose to stay longer at the mall, there are of course the usual stores, with Build-A-Bear, Gymboree and Lego just steps away. A food court is located in the center of the mall and upstairs if you feel like treating yourselves. Take the elevator located near the exit below the restaurants if you have a stroller. Stroller rentals are also available.

                                   
To get to Washington Square from Vancouver, take I-5 south and then take the 405 exit. From there, exit onto Hwy. 26. Head west and exit onto Hwy. 217 south. Exit again at Progress and turn left at the light onto Hall Blvd. Go straight through the intersection at Scholl Ferry Road. The mall will be on your right. To visit the play area, enter the mall through the doors between JC Penney and Dick’s Sporting Goods, and you can’t miss it.