Looking for an afternoon outing with your children? Try visiting the quaint Mallway area in Upper Arlington. The Mallway neighborhood is filled with beautiful, historic homes, tree-lined streets, and adorable shops. This charming area is also highly walkable. So, park the car, and walk over to each of these great spots in Upper Arlington’s Mallway area.
Miller Park Branch Library
The Miller Park Branch Library is small but mighty with a wide selection of books and media for both children and adults. I love being able to peruse the shelves for adult fiction books while my children are happily playing nearby! The Journey-themed children’s area is newly renovated and includes toys, puzzles, and even a dollhouse. In addition, this library branch continues to have excellent programming. One of our family’s favorite programs at this library is making beautiful, homemade cards for both mother’s and father’s day.
Miller Park Playground
Adjacent to the library is Miller Park, a shaded playground with several benches for the parents. There is equipment for both young toddlers and older children as well as a fun tire swing. There’s also a wooded area with a small creek if you are up for a little exploring. Around the Fourth of July, the library hosts a patriotic songs concert on the lawn next to the playground. Our family has a blast listening to the tunes while climbing on the play structures.
Cover to Cover Bookstore
Do you need the perfect gift for a little book lover? Cover to Cover Bookstore has you covered! Support a local business, and check out this adorable bookstore catering to a younger age group. During our visit, I was so impressed with the attentive staff. One of the workers gave us a little tour of the book sections and made great book suggestions for my son. Stay and read awhile in a few of the cozy corners. Also, check out their website for weekly story times, book clubs, and author visits.
Picassos Art Studio
If you have a crafty child, take them to Picassos! Picassos Art Studio is a fun, creative space for both kids and adults to make Pinterest-worthy projects. Check their website for all the different art classes available as well as open studio times. Conveniently, there are many full and half day classes during days off of school and on holiday breaks. This is definitely the place to come for a crafty kid’s dream birthday party!
South of Lane Cafe
After your art class at Picassos, walk around the corner to the lovely South of Lane Cafe. Enjoy a cup of coffee to go or stay for an amazing brunch. Try the delicious French toast! Since there is limited seating available inside this popular cafe, aim to take your kids during the mid-morning.
Have a wonderful stroll around the Mallway area in Upper Arlington!
