We are so unbelievably excited and honored to partner with Wild West City. Mommy University was provided with family memberships in exchange for sharing with our readers all the amazing upcoming Wild West City experiences and events this season.
My family and I love spending the day at Wild West City. There is a new adventure around every corner, and my kids love exploring every inch of the park. They especially love watching and being a part of the action. As a parent, I love watching my kids engage in imaginary play as they pretend to be deputies running after the outlaws. It’s also fun seeing them make new friends and interact with the Wild West City staff.
Not only does Wild West City spark imaginations, it also enhances young minds through fun and interactive experiences. Kids learn best by doing and that is exactly what happens at Wild West City. Kids engage in hands-on activities that truly help them learn about history. This makes Wild West City the perfect option for school and camp field trips as well as a fun way to enhance homeschool lessons!
5 Hands-On Experiences at Wild West City
Mining for Gold
After taking a stroll through the town, head down to Egan’s Mine #1 for gold panning. Kids can enjoy a fun sensory learning experience as they sift through dirt to find “gold.” My boys had so much fun playing in this area. They beamed with excitement as they found “real gold.” This experience sparked conversations about mining and the gold industry.
Becoming a Deputy
Throughout the day there are shows that kids can be a part of at Wild West City. My son’s favorite is where he becomes a deputy marshall. The kids are all sworn in and earn a deputy badge. Then they all work together to catch the outlaws. Once they are caught, the kids help run a trial where the outlaws are convicted and sentenced. This is a fun way for kids to learn about laws, government and individual rights.
My boys had so much fun becoming deputies then protecting everyone from the outlaws!
Meeting the Mountain Man
Located in the back left of Wild West City is the Mountain Man. At first, I thought his presentation was all props until I took a closer look. Every fish cooking over the fire and each animal skin hanging from the hut were all authentic! We took a seat on the wooden benches and learned all about bear safety from the Mountain Man. My kids asked and answered questions so I could tell they were interested and listening. At the end, we were able to touch real bear skin. It was a memorable learning experience for the entire family.
Learning to Spin a Laso
Last year, my boys were able to participate in a laso class. They learned how to manipulate the rope to create the perfect spinning circle. It was a fun way to enhance motor and visual skills as well as work on their ability to listen and follow directions. The kids were then invited to the middle of the street to be a part of the show. This was a wonderful way for my son to build self-confidence!
My son had so much fun learning how to use a lasso!
Exploring the Jailhouse
On the main street at Wild West City you can find the jailhouse. Equipped with 2 cells, the jailhouse is a fun way to learn about law enforcement. Kids (and adults) can get “locked up” allowing them to experience what it is like to be in such a small, confined space. There is often a Wild West City Marshall that can answer any questions you have about the jail.
Looking for more hands-on experiences? Wild West City offers exciting educational programs perfect for field trips. Kids will become immersed in the learning experience as they take in the sights, sounds and smells of the Old West. There are two program options: American Western Heritage and Going West: Oregon Trail. Each program offers fun hands-on experiences that will help kids learn about and understand the history of America. Guests will enjoy activities such as living history demonstrations, a Stagecoach Hold-Up, hands-on cowboy skills and more!
So pack up the family and head out to Wild West City for an adventure back in time! Wild West City is located in Netcong, NJ and is open 10:30am-6pm every weekend through June 17, then every day through Labor Day. You can visit their website for more information.
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