Kilwins in North Hills is a delightful sweet shop where kids can watch candy makers hand-pulling fudge and crafting chocolates right through large viewing windows. Beyond the entertainment of watching treats being made, families can indulge in premium hand-dipped ice cream, waffle cones made fresh throughout the day, and an impressive selection of handcrafted chocolates and caramel apples that make perfect treats or gifts.
Weekday afternoons (2-5pm) are ideal when candy-making is in full swing and crowds are lighter. Avoid Friday and Saturday evenings when North Hills gets very busy with shoppers and diners. Summer evenings after 7pm can have long ice cream lines.
Expect to spend $8-15 per person for ice cream or $15-30 for chocolate gifts. The shop is stroller-friendly with level entry from the sidewalk. Seating is limited to a few tables and outdoor benches, so plan to eat while strolling around North Hills.
Holiday seasons (Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter) feature special themed chocolates and decorated treats that kids love. Summer brings longer hours and outdoor seating, but also the biggest ice cream crowds. The shop is open year-round and offers hot chocolate and holiday fudge flavors in winter.
North Hills has numerous family options within walking distance including Chopt Creative Salad (healthy, quick option), Vivace (casual Italian with pizza kids love), and Shake Shack just across the plaza if you need a meal before or after your sweet treat.
Midtown Park is North Hills' beloved gathering spot offering expansive green lawns perfect for running, playing, and spreading out a picnic blanket. The well-maintained walking paths are ideal for stroller-pushing parents, while seasonal movie nights and family events create memorable community experiences right in the heart of this vibrant shopping and dining district.
Turn grocery shopping into a fun family adventure at this North Hills Trader Joe's! Kids love pushing their own pint-sized shopping carts, hunting for hidden treasure (stuffed animals throughout the store), sampling free treats, and picking out affordable goodies like their famous Joe-Joe's cookies. The cheerful Hawaiian-shirt-clad staff creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes even routine errands feel special.
REI North Hills transforms outdoor gear shopping into an interactive family adventure with its impressive indoor climbing wall, hands-on gear displays, and free educational workshops that teach kids outdoor skills. Beyond shopping, families can explore bike trails, get expert advice on camping with children, and participate in weekend classes that inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
North Hills is a vibrant open-air shopping and entertainment district that offers families much more than typical mall shopping. With interactive fountains perfect for splashing on warm days, plenty of green space for running around, and regular seasonal events like movie nights and holiday celebrations, it's an ideal destination for a relaxed family outing that combines retail therapy with genuine kid-friendly fun.