[Every Friday, I post a “toddler date” idea for something fun, simple, and cheap to do with your toddler. The big picture ideas apply to any locale, but the specific examples will be Bellevue-centric.]

Ferry rides are a great activity for a toddler!

You can make a plan for your destination (like the Kids’ Discovery Museum or Eagle Harbor Books on Bainbridge), or just focus on enjoying the journey – ride across the water, get off the ferry and walk for a few minutes, then get right back on for the return trip. On the boat, there’s plenty of room to walk/run, easy snacks, an ever-changing view, and jigsaw puzzles! [Note: the Elliott Bay water taxi to West Seattle is $7 round trip; and the ferry to Bainbridge is $7.70.]