Photo: Storybook Island
Photo: Lynne Holmgren
Photo: Cornelia Hilpert
Storybook Island
★4.7(2,225 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-8. Toddlers and preschoolers are perfectly suited for the gentle rides and imaginative play structures, while early elementary kids still enjoy exploring the themed areas and acting out their favorite stories. Children over 9 may find it too young for their interests.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
Storybook Island is a magical free admission park that brings beloved children's stories to life through whimsical playgrounds, colorful sculptures, and themed play areas. This charming non-profit attraction has been delighting families since 1959, offering a nostalgia-filled experience where kids can climb aboard Humpty Dumpty's wall, explore the Three Little Pigs' houses, and meet characters from classic tales in a beautifully maintained storybook setting.
Highlights
- ✓Classic storybook character displays including Humpty Dumpty, Three Little Pigs, and Old Woman's Shoe
- ✓Small vintage train ride that loops through the park
- ✓Carousel with hand-painted horses and storybook characters
- ✓Multiple playground structures themed around different fairy tales and nursery rhymes
- ✓Colorful castle structures and bridges perfect for imaginative play and photo opportunities
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early in the morning (right when gates open) to enjoy cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, especially during peak summer months
- 2.Bring a wagon or stroller as the park covers significant ground and little legs tire quickly between all the storybook scenes
- 3.Pack sunscreen, hats, and water bottles,shade is limited in many areas, and there's lots of walking between attractions
- 4.Don't miss the small train ride and carousel, which are huge hits with younger children and add to the storybook magic
- 5.The park is completely free, but they accept donations,consider contributing to help maintain this wonderful community treasure
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings from late May through early September for the best experience, when temperatures are comfortable and school groups haven't arrived. Weekends can get crowded, especially Saturday afternoons, so aim for early morning or late afternoon visits during peak season.
What to Know
Admission is completely FREE (donations welcomed), with free parking available on-site. The park has restroom facilities but no food vendors, so plan to bring snacks and drinks or visit nearby restaurants before or after your trip.
Seasonal Notes
Open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, typically from 9am to 7pm daily. The park hosts special events including a Halloween celebration and Christmas lights display in select years,check their website for current seasonal programming.
Nearby Eats
Firehouse Brewing Company (about 2 miles away) offers a kid-friendly menu with burgers and pizza in a casual atmosphere, or stop at Millstone Family Restaurant for classic American comfort food that welcomes families with little ones.
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