For my children, a trip to the mall generally equals time in the play area and a stop at the American Cookie Company for a sweet treat, so they hear the word "mall" and immediately head for the front door. Sometimes they will even put their shoes on without being asked….which is pretty major since I generally have to ask at least fifteen times for errands that don't involve opportunities to play and eat cookies with fancy icing.
Where to Go:
But the mall can be a source for more than just shopping and cookie-eating—it is also a great place to find family-friendly, indoor entertainment. And with the record-breaking temperatures of late, the words "free" and "air-conditioned" are music to my ears. If you are heading to the mall this weekend for Oklahoma's Tax-Free Holiday (find all you need to know about tax-free shopping here, including local malls with extended shopping hours!), it's helpful to know that both Sooner Mall in Norman and Quail Springs Mall in north OKC both offer children's play areas that offer a nice break for kids while you are shopping.
Looking for a break from the heat next week? Hit local malls this coming Tuesday (August 7) for some cool indoor events that are all FREE!
What to Do:
- Norman Public Library's Outeach Storytime at Sooner Mall (3301 W. Main) is an interactive story time held outside Sears for ages 9 & under. This storytime is held every Tuesday, at 10am. Find more details here.
- Mini-Model Build at Penn Square Mall's Lego Store (1901 NW Expressway) provides kids ages 6-14 with a new model to build and take home every month. This free event is held on the first Tuesday of each month at 5pm. Quantites are limited, so it doesn't hurt to get there early. More event details.
- Family Night at Quail Springs Mall (2501 W Memorial Rd) includes free entertainment, prizes, crafts, dessert and more in the mall's food court. Family Night is held on the first Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7:30pm, and includes different activities or themes each month. More event details.
Whether you are back-to-school shopping or just seeking cool places to play with your kids, enjoy these fun events at local malls—and don't forget your cookie on the way out!
Happy shopping!
Brooke
