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Trader Joe's
★4.7(3,402 reviews)$$Activity
🕑 30-60 minutes👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers enjoy riding in the cart and spotting colorful packages, while elementary-aged kids love reading quirky product names, helping find items on the list, and choosing their own special treats. Even teens appreciate the unique food finds and affordable prices.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Turn grocery shopping into a fun family adventure at this beloved Trader Joe's location in Southern Highlands! Kids love the treasure hunt atmosphere, hunting for the hidden stuffed animal in the store, sampling free goodies (when available), and picking out unique snacks they won't find anywhere else. It's a great way to teach children about food shopping while keeping them entertained.
Highlights
- ✓Daily hidden stuffed animal hunt with small prizes for kids who find it
- ✓Free samples of new and seasonal products (availability varies)
- ✓Kid-sized shopping carts at some locations for little helpers
- ✓Unique, colorful packaging and fun product names that spark kids' curiosity
- ✓Affordable treats section perfect for letting kids pick their own special snack
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when they open at 8:00 AM for the calmest shopping experience with kids and the best sample availability
- 2.Give kids their own mini shopping list with pictures to find 3-5 items, turns shopping into an engaging scavenger hunt
- 3.Ask staff about the hidden stuffed animal, it's in a different spot each day and kids get a prize when they find it
- 4.Bring reusable bags and let kids help pack groceries for extra involvement and life skills practice
- 5.Head straight to the sample station first (when available) to keep hungry kids happy while you shop
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 8:00-10:00 AM are ideal for families, stores are less crowded, shelves are fully stocked, and staff have more time to interact with curious kids. Avoid weekday evenings (5:00-7:00 PM) and weekend afternoons when the store is busiest.
What to Know
This is a working grocery store, so keep little ones close in crowded aisles. Parking is readily available in the shopping center lot. Bring your own bags or purchase reusable ones. Stroller-friendly wide aisles make navigating with young children easy.
Seasonal Notes
Holiday seasons (October-December) feature special seasonal items and festive decorations that kids especially enjoy. The store may be busier during holidays, so plan accordingly. Regular hours year-round make it a reliable activity option any season.
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Nearby Eats
The Southern Highlands location is in a shopping center with several nearby family dining options including casual restaurants and quick-service eateries perfect for a post-shopping meal with kids.
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