REI050

This is the place to outfit the family for a foray into the outdoors, whether it's hitting the slopes at Bogus Basin, doing some wildlife watching at MK Nature Center, or just venturing to the park in the rain.

REI is an upscale megastore for people who demand the best in outdoor gear. Baby and kid stuff abounds: look for high-quality baby joggers, bike trailers, and trail packs; family camping gear; kids' bikes and helmets; performance footwear; skis and snow gear; rain gear, outdoorsy toys, and rugged, stylish clothes for kids of all ages (Patagonia, Life is Good, Gramicci).

Rent downhill skis, snowboards, and snowshoes, cross-country skis, gear sleds, and tents, backpacks, mountaineering gear, and sleeping bags/pads at area stores. Most equipment can be rented in toddler/children's sizes. Not all stores carry all gear; check on availability by clicking on "Stores/Events" at the website, then by choosing an individual store and looking in the right-hand sidebar for a gear rental link. Rental fees depend on membership status and equipment type.

Stores have a full schedule of outdoor-related talks and programs, but these are primarily geared towards adults (although there is an occasional family-related event; check REI's website for details.)