PlayPort: This partnership between the Kentucky Science Center and Waterfront Park is an underused gem right next to downtown Louisville. Kids from toddlers to seniors can let their imaginations run wild on play structures made from recycled construction materials. Lots of STEM learning is hidden within adventure and fun. 1103 Rowan St., Louisville

Paint with water: Water plus paint brushes. That’s it. That’s the whole activity. Let kids go to town on fences, sidewalks, porches, and more. You can add washable paint when the clear water gets old. Endless fun and a few minutes to breathe for mom!

Feet in the creek: Another often-missed wonder close by is Harrods Creek Park in Prospect. Four miles of hiking trails, and several of them are easy enough even for a toddler. Kids can experience a country childhood just outside the city! Off Montero Dr. in the Hunting Creek subdivision

Possibility Playground: If you’re ready for an adventure, head to Corydon, Indiana, to the most gigantic playground we’ve seen in a bit: swings, slides, climbing structures galore. It’s designed for kids of all abilities and mobilities. Pack a lunch and eat in the nearby picnic area. Haysworth Nature Reserve, 755 IN-135, Corydon, IN.

Toy donation mission: Teach your kids to help others by going through their things and picking out 10 things to donate. A double bonus: you clear out clutter you’ve grown past and your kids rediscover some old favorites during their mission. (Seriously, we kept a toddler ride-on train long past its play expiration date because our kids just couldn’t bear to part with it.)