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History Lessons and Family Fun in Northern Virginia

Published

By Cassandra Lane

A cannon on the Manassas National Battlefield Park. PHOTOS COURTESY CASSANDRA LANE

Immerse in part of the country where battlefields, vineyards and modern culture meet.

On a cool Saturday morning earlier this year, the hem of my long, floral-print dress trailed across dew-covered grass at the Manassas National Battlefield Park in Prince William County, Va.

It was the first time that I, a descendant of enslaved African Americans and a native of the American South, had ever set foot on a Civil War battle site. While I grew up playing on a Louisiana dirt road named after Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard (commander of the main Confederate army at Manassas), as an adult I’ve steered clear of sites that preserve the memory of a war largely waged over whether to keep people like my ancestors enslaved. But on that morning, I walked the grounds of this history, stopping at a row of cannons lining a hill. I imagined the blasts of musket fire and bloodshed that occurred more than 160 years ago. The fallen bodies of men and boys even younger than my son, who is 18.

As I stepped away from the cannons, I returned a call to my friend Darlene, who is based in nearby Washington, D.C., and has written fiction set during the war. “Should you be visiting a Civil War battlefield at a time like this,” Darlene asked, “when the country is so divided and some folks seem to want to take us back to the old days?”

During the First Battle of Manassas in 1861, the Stone House was used to serve wounded soldiers.

“Yes,” I answered. And then, more emphatically: “Yes, I should.”

Yes, we should. This era of political unrest and division is a critical opportunity for adults and children of all races and creeds, political parties and beliefs to fervently examine this country’s past, understand the echoes that still reverberate today and try not to repeat the worst of history.

While West Coast families often travel to our nation’s capital to absorb political history through its famous monuments and museums, Northern Virginia, situated just across the Potomac River, is its own archive: American Revolutionary beginnings, Civil War reckonings, African American history, aviation marvels and centuries-old farming traditions. Bonus: You and your family can explore this history while also enjoying the fruits of the area’s contemporary culture, entertainment and natural beauty.

Mapping NOVA

Before “there was a United States of America, there was the caste system, born in colonial Virginia,” Pulitzer Prize-winning author Isabel Wilkerson writes in her book “Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents.” She is referring to 1619, the year the first recorded Africans were brought to the New World, docking at Old Point Comfort, Va.

While NOVA (a shorthand locals have long given Northern Virginia) certainly has a complicated history, it is located 150 miles or so north of the infamous 1619 area and gives off a laidback East Coast vibe rather than a deeply Southern one. It is economically affluent, culturally diverse, densely populated and home to many federal and tech industry employees who work in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area. An interesting weave of cosmopolitan flair, small-town charm, rural gems and historic preservation, it comprises four counties (Loudoun, Fairfax, Arlington and Prince William), as well as some independent towns such as Alexandria and Manassas. 

For our NOVA adventure, my family and I flew into Dulles International Airport and rented a car to help us explore the region freely. Each area was between 20-40 minutes from the airport.

Lansdowne Resort in Loudoun County.

Charmed in Loudoun County  

We began our stay at Lansdowne Resort, a sprawling and peaceful resort that spans more than 470 acres along the Potomac River. Located in Leesburg, the AAA Four Diamond hotel includes 296 guestrooms, 45 holes of championship golf, multiple restaurants, a wellness spa, swimming pools, conference rooms and year-round family activities.

As my husband and son relaxed on their beds our first evening, I took a long stroll around the resort, passing the golf course glowing green under the setting sun, the Bark Park for furry friends and, a little farther down from the resort, Bazil Newman Riverfront Park. With access to Goose Creek and the Potomac, this nature haven is perfect for hiking, fishing, canoeing and kayaking.

Downtown Leesburg is rich with charm.

Loudoun County boasts more than 50 award-winning wineries and tasting rooms, 30-plus craft breweries, farm-to-table dining, country inns and estates and gorgeous scenic vistas, but what most delighted me here were the cobblestone streets and quaint brick storefronts in downtown Leesburg. Founded in 1758, Leesburg was a strategic Civil War location, but while the architecture has been preserved, what stands on the other side of these buildings’ walls today are art galleries, boutiques and good eats.

We were dismayed to pull on the handle at Buford’s Biscuits and discover it was closed for the day, but our disappointment melted like butter as we settled into a booth at the 1950s-themed Leesburg Diner, a historic restaurant serving the community since 1865.

The author and her family take a tractor ride at Great Country Farms in Bluemont, Va.

Family field trip: farms and NOVA wine country

Despite urbanization, Northern Virginia’s agricultural life has remained central to the area’s way of life. After breakfast, we drove to Great Country Farms, a staple in Loudoun County for more than 30 years. Located in rural Bluemont, it has been operated by multiple generations of the Zurschmeide family and offers pick-your-own experiences throughout the year and countless other ways to play and explore. We visited the goats and chickens, got giddy trying to make our way through a cage maze, pushed giant chess pieces with our feet and hopped on a tractor ride that rewarded us with beautiful views of the farm and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance. In the general store, we bought cider-spiced doughnuts and candles poured inside Virginia wine bottles, the perfect segue to our next stop: Bluemont Vineyard. Situated in the hills above the farm, the vineyard was also founded by the Zurschmeide family.

Enjoying some Virginia wine at Bluemont Vineyard.

While Virginia’s tourism slogan is “Virginia is for Lovers,” its wine community’s motto is “Virginia is for Wine Lovers.” Here is a wine country story that tried, failed and tried again, one that can be traced back to settlers and some of the founding fathers. Today’s wine community (with 5,000 acres of grapes, 100 wineries in Northern Virginia and 300 in the whole state), reflects Virginians’ determination, creativity and agricultural roots — from subsistence farming to modern agritourism.

In Bluemont’s light-filled tasting room, my family and I sat just on the other side of a wide door that opened to sweeping views of the rolling vineyards. Locals say the wine country here is more reminiscent of Europe than California. We sunk down into cognac-colored leather couches, dipped torn pieces of warm baguette into a lush crab dip and followed the decadence up with sips of Albariño, its notes of green apple, candied lemon and grapefruit like a breeze tap dancing on our tongues.

With more sophistication than I could muster, our teen sipped from his wine glass filled with sparkling apple cider. In a couple years, he’ll insist on the real thing, so I captured this sweet moment on camera for us to chuckle over in the future.

Flying high

There’s something almost cathedral-like about standing under the massive bodies of more than 200 aircraft and spacecraft hanging overhead at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in the Fairfax County town of Chantilly.

Space Shuttle Discovery at Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center.

This lesser-known sister site of D.C.’s National Air and Space Museum is adjacent to Dulles and houses nearly 3,000 artifacts, memorabilia and archival materials that chronicle the history of aviation and spaceflight, including Space Shuttle Discovery, the B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay that dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, a NASA android and the record-setting SR-71 Blackbird.

After vacillating between awe over innovative genius to sorrow over reminders of how technology has been used to destroy, we were up for something grounding when we emerged from this stunning museum. For my family, chocolate is always the perfect antidote, so we drove just 3 miles to get to River Sea Chocolates, a husband-and-wife-owned chocolate factory and retail shop that creates sustainable single-origin chocolates from bean to bar.

A delicious feast at Sisters Thai in Tysons, Va.

That evening, we met up with my sister and her family (she and her husband are two of the tri-state area’s many federal employees) at Perch Putt, an 18-hole miniature golf course located 11 stories in the sky on top of a new performing arts center in the heart of Tysons, Va. You can grab a cocktail from the Tiki bar or a snack from vintage food trucks, but we were all so wrapped up in our mini-golf competition that we missed ordering from the food trucks before they closed. Led by our growling bellies, we headed to Sisters Thai — the best Thai I’ve had outside L.A. (Though I haven’t visited Thailand yet — it’s on my list!)

After dinner, we checked into The Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner Center, which is connected to Tysons Corner Center’s 300 or so stores and restaurants as well as the Tysons Silver Line Metrorail station. The hotel features 300 stylish rooms and opens out onto the Pen Fed Plaza at Tysons Corner Center.

An expansive living room with floor-to-ceiling windows separated our master suite from our son’s, making us all happy (and luxurious) campers. With the lights of Tysons’ skyscrapers shining outside our windows, I imagined us in a time travel machine — spending one moment in 18th and 19th century America, then dropping solidly back into the present day with all its sleek modernity and conveniences.

Retreating at Great Falls Park

The sound of water — whether a small desk fountain or ocean waves — can always calm and refresh the senses. Since my family’s vacation itinerary was as packed as a can of sardines, we were relieved to let our attachment to our schedule slip away under the rushing sounds of Great Falls Park in McLean, Va.

The 800-acre national park features hiking trails and picnic areas, but the main treat is watching the Potomac River rev up speed and force as it falls over steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge, forming Class V whitewater rapids. The ruins of the Patowmack Canal, an effort started by George Washington, offer a glimpse into the early history of this country. We visited each of the three overlooks to enjoy a different vantage point of the raging river. (Entry into Great Falls is $20 per vehicle unless you have a National Parks pass.)

Considering the old and new

Slave quarters at George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

Next year marks the United States’ 250th anniversary, and institutions that focus on American history are swamped with commemoration planning. During a time when who gets to teach and write about our nation’s past is being challenged, weaving history lessons into family trips is one way to keep our kids and teens curious and to help them contextualize current events and movements. The upcoming Semiquincentennial is a timely conversation starter.

Several key figures of the American Revolution — George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Patrick Henry — emerged from the Northern Virginia area, and while I had never considered visiting the historic homes of any of these men before, I’m glad my family and I explored George Washington’s mansion, Mount Vernon, during this trip. In preparation for next year’s commemoration, a major landmark preservation project was underway. On LAParent.com, one of our writers previously wrote about Mount Vernon, so all I want to add is that as we toured the mansion, the slave quarters and took a cruise on the Potomac, I was pleased that the docents balance telling the “founding father” story with how the hundreds of enslaved people Washington and his famous wife, Martha, owned contributed mightily to building his wealth — and the wealth of America.

Our darting in and out of the past continued with a walking tour of the beautiful port city Alexandria, which boast’s the nation’s third oldest historic district, ghost tours, African American heritage trails, the Freedom House Museum and King Street Mile, lined with more than 200 independent shops and restaurants tucked in architecture dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum in Alexandria boasts a vast collection of herbal botanicals, hand-blown glass and medical equipment.

We walked along the waterfront, took pictures in front of the Spite House (America’s “skinniest home”), checked out arts and crafts at the Torpedo Factory Art Center and were mesmerized by how walking into the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum felt like stepping into 1792, which is when young Quaker pharmacist Edward Stabler first opened it. More than 15,000 objects still remain as part of the museum’s collection, and I was intrigued to see some of the herbs and potions (snake root, castor oil, pickle spice) that my grandmother (born in 1908) once used sitting on these old shelves.

Harry Potter fans will also recognize some of the names on the bottles here since the ingredients were used in the characters’ potions — a reminder (like so much of this NOVA visit) that everything old becomes new again.

Cassandra Lane is Editor-in-Chief of L.A. Parent and author of We Are Bridges. She and her husband are newly empty nesters.

If You Go

  • Getting there: LAX to IAD (Dulles International Airport), a 25- to 40-minute drive to most sites. Beware of toll roads. Visit tollroadsinvirginia.com for instructions.
  • Rent a car: for ease of travel between counties and towns.
  • Best season: Fall for rich foliage colors and spring for cherry blossoms, but winter offers fewer crowds. October is Virginia Wine Month.
  • Tips:
    • Wear comfortable walking shoes.
    • Layer clothing for changing temperatures.
    • Balance educational stops with fun/active ones.
  • NOVA tourism websites for events and seasonal activities:

Dana Point Family Getaway: Seafaring, Stargazing and More Summer Magic

Published

By Nina Harada

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa overlooks the Pacific Ocean. PHOTO COURTESY LAGUNA CLIFFS MARRIOTT

When I was a kid the SoCal summer days stretched out like rows of palm trees on any L.A. street: forever. Since becoming a parent, however, every summer season feels shorter and shorter. Perhaps this contraction of time is just my perspective as an adult, but I worry that summertime magic is slipping through my fingertips, nonetheless.

One remedy? A sweet weekend getaway with my family to Dana Point, the picturesque coastal town about 60 miles south of L.A., for swimming, stargazing, sea life encounters and more seaside fun.

Juna was after my jumbo shrimp cocktail at Coastal Kitchen. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

Checking in: Easing into coastal time

Our eldest, Naomi, counted down the days until we could stay at the “ho-tail” (at 6 years old she still mispronounces words, and I hope that never stops). Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, a 378-room hotel overlooking the Pacific Ocean was the perfect place for our family of four to check everything off our wish list: pool for Naomi, sprawling lawn for 2-year-old Juna to release her toddler energy, gourmet dining for my foodie husband and scenic spots to enjoy my morning coffee ritual.

After check-in we raced over to Coastal Kitchen barely making our reservation due to frustrating, albeit predictable, Friday L.A. traffic. The hip casual restaurant is in the heart of the Lantern District, where parking difficulty rivals WeHo on a Saturday night. But jumbo shrimp cocktail, their famous crab cakes and delicious smoked trout dip that even our kids were devouring quickly made our car woes subside. In fact, when I asked Naomi what her favorite part of our entire weekend was, she said “my ice cream sandwich!” which comes with every kid’s meal—a true mark of a family-friendly establishment.

I’ve done yoga. I’ve done stand up paddle boarding. But never together! PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

Soaking it all in

The next morning, I woke up eager to keep my promises to the girls (beach and pool) and anxious to sneak in a moment for myself. At home, scoring solo time requires a lot more negotiation between my husband and me but at Laguna Cliffs, a quick stroll across the lawn to Lantern Bay Park leads to a picturesque playground fit for our girls’ boundless energy. Taking advantage of this easy access, my husband took the girls so I could spend a blissful hour on the water at I Heart Yoga’s stand-up paddle board class in Dana Cove.

Our instructor Dave led a sweet mother-daughter duo, a local who recently discovered the joys of SUP yoga, a pro who arrived with her own board and me past sailboats and stingrays to an open spot in the bay where we attempted vinyasas and balancing poses on wavy water. As we rocked side to side in our final resting pose Dave reminded us, “Life is about capturing moments, and this is one of them.” Suddenly time started to expand, rather than contract. He’s right, I thought, this shavasana, this weekend with my family and even this whole summer, is a moment in this beautiful phase of parenthood to remember.

The girls loved the touch tanks at the Ocean Institute. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

Grounded and recharged, I joined my family for our next venture at the Ocean Institute, a nonprofit that hosts an interactive learning center, teaching labs and tours aboard their two historic tall ships and an oceanographic research vessel. You could easily spend all day there, but even a quick visit will impart a bevy of fun facts like, sharks can be as small as the palm of your hand, stingrays can have a wingspan over 20 feet and Juna, apparently, finds fish hilarious. Enough learning about the ocean, Naomi was begging to see the real thing, but Juna was harder to convince as she was delighted by the touch tanks where she pet starfish and stingrays.

Young’s Beach Shack is a popular beachside café, so be prepared to wait. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

Eventually we made our way to Salt Creek Beach, a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, just below The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel. So popular, that I decided to hop out with the girls while my husband circled the lot searching for a space to open. “This parking lot is like winning the lottery,” my husband texted me while Naomi and I waited in line at Young’s Beach Shack, the modern beachside café serving up locally sourced California cuisine, plus fresh smoothies, beer and wine. We won the (parking) lottery and soon our whole family was enjoying clam chowder, tuna melt and chips, veggie rice bowl and ice-cold lemonade before moseying down the steps to dip our toes in the ocean.

The splash pad is a big hit with the littles. PHOTO COURTESY LAGUNA CLIFFS MARRIOTT

A poolside afternoon & stargazing evening

We spent the rest of the afternoon exactly how I pictured an end-of-summer family vacation: lounging by the pool. Juna was delighted by the splash pad and shallow kids pool, while Naomi relished in the freedom of bouncing from pool to hot tub to mini golf on the lawn. Another moment, captured. Time, expanding.

The food at Lantern’s Edge was as delicious as it was beautiful. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

After a little refresh back at our room, we headed to Lantern’s Edge, the resort’s onsite restaurant overlooking Dana Point. Admittedly, I’m often skeptical of hotel restaurants, but Executive Chef Kristine Davis proved me wrong from the very first dishes, Hamachi crudo and grilled maitake mushrooms. My daughters and I were just in Japan, so the chef’s Asian spin on California cuisine were a welcome surprise. We also enjoyed the lobster risotto, picanha and yucca fries, a glass of wine and an incredible dessert plate inspired by the chef’s Filipino roots that was almost too pretty to eat.

Cassandra of Stargazer Events reminds us to look up at the sky. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

As the sky slowly transformed into a tangerine pink, we ran out onto the lawn in front of the restaurant for an impromptu family stroll. “Ocean!” exclaimed Juna, one of her favorite words this summer. “Yes, ocean!” I replied. “We’re going to go tomorrow, so let’s get some rest.” My husband scooped her up to get ready for bed, while I had some rare one-on-one time with our eldest. Naomi and I held hands as we roamed the grounds looking for the evening’s final event. “We’re really going to see the moon?” Naomi asked. “You’ll see!” I replied.

Finally, we found a giant telescope pointing towards the sky. Cassandra, founder of Stargazer Events and member of the Los Angeles Astronomical Society, enthusiastically welcomed us over. “I found my passion in this universe, and it’s to stop people from looking down, and begin to look up and wonder and have curiosity to what’s out there…,” she told the small crowd gathered around her two high-power telescopes. Suddenly, self-conscious about taking notes on my phone for this very article, I slipped it back into my pocket. “That’s my mission tonight, is to explain things in a different perspective.” Her passion and enthusiasm were contagious, sparking Naomi’s curiosity in the night sky and reminding me, once again, to capture the moment.

Sailing alongside dolphins was such a treat. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

Grand finale: Sailing into summer memories

Our Dana Point grand finale, a dolphin and whale watching tour with Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, was the perfect way to end our summer getaway. “Ocean!” Juna exclaimed once more as we boarded the catamaran with other families. The two-hour excursion led by marine naturalist experts guarantees marine mammal sightings—if you don’t see a whale or dolphin, you get a voucher for a future free trip. About a half-hour into the ride Naomi was getting restless. “I’m hungry,” she whined. Suddenly, a din ascended from the boat when we realized, a few passengers had spotted the first dolphin!

We quickly made our way up to the deck to see schools of dolphins joyfully splashing all around us. “Aww, they’re so cute!” Naomi squealed, hands gripping the rail at the tip of the boat, her sister by her side. In awe, Juna gasped, “Wow!”

Vacations are always a good idea, but another remedy for summer magic slipping away? Capturing moments, each and every one of them.

Nina Harada is L.A. Parent’s Digital Editor. When she’s not spending quality time with her husband and daughters, she’s working on her art and writing. You can find her on Instagram at ninaharada and ninaharadaart and on Substack at motherside.substack.com.

Score Big This Summer: Family Fun at Dallas Cowboys Training Camp in Oxnard

Published

Score big this summer with free family-friendly events, open practices, and beachside adventures just a short drive from LA.

Presented by Visit Oxnard.

Summer is the perfect season for sports, sunshine, and making memories with the family, and this year, Oxnard and the Dallas Cowboys are teaming up to create a new local tradition. From July 22 through August 13, LA-area families can experience the excitement of the Dallas Cowboys Training Camp, featuring open practices, autograph signings, kid zones, VIP experiences, and fan events, all free and open to the public. Just a quick drive up the 101, this two-week celebration promises unforgettable moments both on and off the field.

It’s time again for America’s Team to make its anticipated return to Oxnard for the annual Dallas Cowboys Training Camp 2025. Each year, visitors and residents of Oxnard welcome the team all the way from their regular training spot, “The Star,” in the Lone Star State in Frisco, Texas. For LA local families, the trip is sweeter, just up the 101 and offers a jam-packed experience! 

KCRUTSkcrutsrh

Football fans get the opportunity to see the boys in blue along with their favorite coaches up close and in action! The fun-for-the-whole-family festivities begin with the first open practice on July 22 and run through the final open practice on Aug. 13, with much to do in between! The two-week experience boasts a spread of activities, including autograph signings, kid zones, chances to win exclusive Dallas Cowboys merch and VIP opportunities. The Dallas Cowboys Training Camp will kick off with the 66th annual Cowboys Back Together Weekend event. Join Dallas Cowboys alumni, the Dallas Cowboys’ beloved mascot, Rowdy, and the often imitated, never equaled Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders for a day of autograph signings, prizes and nonstop entertainment! This fan-tastic event starts at 11:15 am at River Ridge Playing Fields and leads right up to open practice! VIP experiences include early access to the Dallas Cowboys Training Camp before it opens to the public and fence-line access. You can be front and center to interact with the boys in blue! 

Oxnard Fan Night
The highlight of Dallas Cowboys Training Camp is sure to be Oxnard Fan Night. Join fellow fans at The Collection at RiverPark on July 25 to witness America’s Sweethearts, The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, take center stage! If you’re seeking free fun for the entire family, attending Oxnard Fan Night should be your goal. America’s Sweethearts will be performing up close for fans in Oxnard. This year, Oxnard Fan Night is hosted by ZEALE, half of southern rap duo Blackillac, and features the Dallas Cowboys Mascot, Rowdy, Cowboys trivia and more! Rumor has it another special guest is slated to appear; stay tuned to socials for that announcement. The fun starts right at 4 pm, so arrive early. This event promises a crowd and fans of America’s Team won’t want to miss a beat! 

Visit Oxnard, November 12, 2024

DCC Clinic
If your family has tweens who like to groove or who have hopes of one day joining America’s Sweethearts on the field, The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleading Clinic is the place to be! The free dance clinic will take place on Sunday, July 25 at 2 pm. It is the best place for kids who want to 

channel the energy from watching the team on the field. The DCC Clinic may even be a dream come true for any hopefuls between the ages of 6-16 looking to learn some of those iconic Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders’ moves! 

Fun Off-Field
When your team (read: family) is ready for a halftime break, take full advantage of Oxnard’s vibrant calling card of sun, sand and surf! Multiple beaches lie in this scenic spot where the Pacific Coast Highway meets the 101. Oxnard can be your MVP for scoring your own summer touchdown.

Want to turn the Dallas Cowboys Training Camp into a complete beach weekend escape? You can do that! Making memories is easy with Oxnard’s seven miles of pristine beaches just a beat apart from LA. Don’t be surprised when you feel like you’re found a private paradise at ‘ololkoy Beach Park — USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards #1 winner for California’s Best Beach, three years running. And if you still want more, swim by Hollywood Beach and beyond! Whether your family wants to surf, watch whales or lay out, Oxnard gives you options at an affordable price. This includes both luxury and home-style lodging for however you prefer to hideaway on vacay. Wrap up the weekend exploring the expansive Channel Island Harbor and Channel Island National Park sea cave for a family outing you’ll never forget. 

The summer is heating up, but Oxnard knows just how to keep cool. Come for the free, fun family events and stay for the vibes. It’s all here — find out why Ox Marks the Spot. Learn more about Oxnard’s family-friendly get-aways at https://visitoxnard.com or call our team at 800-2-OXNARD.

Bonding and Adventure: A Mother-Daughter Escape to Big Bear Lake

Published

By Mirabel Raphael and Michele Raphael

Paddleboarding during mother-daughter adventures at Big Bear Lake. PHOTO BY MICHELE RAPHAEL

Discover mountain charm, outdoor fun, and cozy cabins on a memorable family getaway just two hours from L.A.

If the city heat has you dreaming of fresh mountain air and tranquil lakes, Big Bear Lake is the perfect nearby escape for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, this picturesque destination offers everything from paddleboarding and nature walks to cozy cabins and vibrant local dining. Join mother and daughter Michele and Mirabel Raphael as they share their journey of adventure, bonding, and discovery in this beloved Southern California retreat.

You can get there in just two hours, and other than the scenic switchbacks during the last few miles before town, the route is relatively easy — especially in the warmer seasons when snow- and ice-covered roads aren’t a factor — as long as you’re a confident mountain driver.

The confident driver in our mother-daughter trip up to Big Bear Lake was Mirabel, a 19-year-old who enjoys new challenges. Under the watchful eye of her mother, Michele, she drove us from our home in the suburbs of L.A. to the low-key, family- and pet-friendly Noon Lodge, where we checked in for the first part of our stay.

Olive Wren Den, a cabin in Big Bear Lake, is perfect for large family gatherings and entertaining. PHOTO BY MICHELE RAPHAEL

Settling into charm

On the first floor of our cabin stood a quaint kitchen, a small full bathroom with a shower and a living room decorated in a western and Native American style that accentuated the mountain environment without feeling kitschy.

Up a flight of stairs, we were delighted to find a master bedroom and a larger full bathroom with eco-friendly Terra Pure green tea-scented amenities, plus a second bedroom with two twin beds. On the wall above each twin bed hung small lamps that could be turned on and off by pulling a metal cord, which felt charming, old-fashioned and perfect for lovers of nighttime reading (Dear reader: That’s us).

After touring our cabin, we went outside and found ourselves only steps away from the pool, fire pits, picnic tables and an outdoor play area where families can indulge in bocce, cornhole and shuffleboard.

Two Adirondack chairs, sitting dockside in the shade of a pine tree and overlooking Noon Lodge’s tethered canoes (bikes are also available for guests), promised a relaxing afternoon if we would give them some of our time. However, we had competing priorities — namely, making it to the marina before the Get Boards rental shop closed — so we set off on our first adventure with a promise to return to the chairs later.

Kayaking and candle making

With Michele ensconced in a kayak and Mirabel comfortably set up on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), we made our foray onto dazzling Big Bear Lake by mid-afternoon. After a few hundred meters, the waves picked up, but Mirabel was determined to have a real adventure, so we kept paddling out for about an hour.

The Twisted Tasting Tray at Barrel 33 features a tasty array of artisan cheeses and meats in a soft Bavarian pretzel. PHOTO BY MICHELE RAPHAEL

Close to the marina, the lake revealed splendid sights like the silver arc of a fish leaping out of the water and a family of ducks slowly trailing their way around. Farther out, the lake was even more clear and sparkling, but we soon realized the ducks had the right idea with their slow approach. We returned to the shallow end to spend time chatting while savoring how the current gently swayed our fiberglass “boats.”

When our two-hour rental was up, we checked out Big Bear Village, perusing gift shops, restaurants and flower beds. We sat down for a quick snack at Barrel 33 (we recommend the Twisted Tasting Tray, an artisan cheese and cured meats sampler served in a huge, soft Bavarian pretzel), before heading to our next activity  — candle making at Mystic Moto’s Ritual Provisions Candle Bar. Neither of us had made candles before, and at first glance, the motorcycle-themed shop didn’t seem conducive to crafting a gently scented, sparkly candle. Yet somehow the edgy glam began to make sense, and our candle-making process completely made sense after the shop’s co-owner Molly Williams gave us instructions.

First, we chose our glass vessels and two scents from a variety of tiny, amber-colored bottles. Intoxicating options included rose and oud, burnt umber and sea minerals. Williams gave us larger bottles, and, using long, golden spoons, we measured out our preferred ratio of scents, then mixed the scented liquid with molten wax inside our vessels.

While we waited for our candles to harden, we explored the rest of the shop. Michele picked out a couple of candles — expertly handcrafted by Williams on nights of the full moon — as gifts for friends. For herself, she bought a delicate gold necklace with an upward-facing horseshoe charm for luck. And for Mirabel: a box of celestial-themed, reprinted vintage postcards.

Mirabel’s finished candle at Mystic Moto featured rose quartz and sprinkles of glittering mica. PHOTO BY MIRABEL RAPHAEL

When our candles were almost set, we pressed crystals and sprinkled mica glitter on top to complete the luxurious look.

Good food and a good night

Tired and hungry (but relaxed and happy!), we walked to the nearby scratch kitchen Stella Luna for dinner. We shared the butter board, which was loaded with thick slices of toasted focaccia bread baked daily at the neighboring Sister My Sister Bake Shop. The crusty goodness was accompanied by thin petals of honeyed, spiced butter. Our meal included a well-balanced prosciutto and burrata salad, a perfectly seared steak with broccolini, crispy smashed potatoes and a slice of gluten-free, flourless vegan chocolate cake that was light yet rich.

As we made our way back to the cabin, the sky was dark and full of glittering stars. The outdoor communal fireplace created a cozy scene. But our beds beckoned, and we settled deeply into the serenity of mountain rest.

From leisure to adrenaline-fueled fun

The next day, we woke up refreshed and ate breakfast in the sunlight at a wooden picnic table decorated with chunky candles in glass votives. 

After breakfast, we joined a nature walk at the Big Bear Discovery Center. Sand, our enthusiastic, seasoned guide, led our group of about a dozen or so curious walkers, made up of families, couples and one puppy, through a peaceful path surrounded by California’s native plants and trees. We smelled the vanilla-like perfume of a Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyi) and learned that the purple, yellow and red flowers dotting the terrain were mountain phlox, wild wallflower and Indian paintbrush, and that the San Gabriel Mountain range contains seven ecosystems, more than any other mountain range in the world. Once we understood the elements of Big Bear Lake’s ecosystem — the flowers, the trees, the woodrat dens, the overturned, hollow logs full of beetles — we saw them repeating across the hillside in a poetic elaboration of natural beauty.

Charming accents abound at the cabins at Noon Lodge in Big Bear Lake. PHOTO COURTESY NOON LODGE

Next, we headed to The Bowling Barn for a friendly family faceoff. Three takeaways:

1. The Bowling Barn, a pristine and state-of-the-art 16-lane bowling alley and arcade tucked inside a red, country barn-like building, is extra fun even when it’s broad daylight outside (or for glow bowling at night!). This is thanks to the animated electronic scoreboard, which features playful clips with photos of bowlers’ faces performing a variety of gags on screen after each shot. After bowling a seven, Mirabel’s face was attached to a wolf who shaved the wool off sheep-faced Michele. When Michele bowled a nine, the roles were reversed.

2. Mirabel discovered that she needed to bowl lower to the ground for her shots to be successful — and that she was in the habit of bowling upside down in a manner best described by Michele as “overhand.” Fixing her technique allowed her to win one game before resoundingly losing the following two games to Michele.

3. No matter how questionable your overall performance, you will walk away happy if your last shot was a good one. Case in point: Our last shots were both strikes, the memories of which overshadowed our recollections of the more-than-zero gutter balls we each bowled. 

Surprise hellos, inevitable goodbyes

Still savoring the dopamine released by light exercise, the exhilaration of our final strikes and near-constant laughter from our ribbing of each other, we made our way to Pine Knot Marina to board the Miss Liberty, a patriotically decorated 2-story paddlewheel boat (and former ice breaker) that took us for a two-hour tour of the lake.

The charismatic Captain John narrated Big Bear history and lore, pointing out impressive lakeside homes with equally impressive owners, including the late cowboy actor Roy Rogers, recording superstar Olivia Newton-John and Mel Blanc, best known as the iconic voice of “Looney Tunes” characters. To our surprise, Captain John called out Mel’s son, Noel Blanc, a voiceover actor who lives in the family home. Noel came out on his deck and performed a Bugs Bunny impression over his own megaphone.

To commemorate our trip, we bought Big Bear baseball caps at the Big Bear Marina shop before going to Sweet Basil Bistro for our last dinner in Big Bear Lake. We enjoyed a plate of focaccia and olive oil and split a lobster lasagna creatively accompanied with vanilla beurre blanc, which did, in fact, taste like vanilla. Luckily, we had scored an early reservation, so we beat the dinner rush that we could see building at the popular restaurant toward the end of our meal.

All smiles after a fun afternoon and bonding chats on the water. PHOTO BY MICHELE RAPHAEL

After dinner, we made it to our final lodging, Olive Wren Den, a tasteful, modern-yet-rustic, spacious three-bedroom cabin (sleeps eight) with a chef’s kitchen, two full bathrooms (with shower-bathtubs) and an outdoor hot tub and barbecue in the pine-tree-lined backyard (ideal for hosting parties and for family dogs and kids to play). We relaxed on the plush couches in front of the living room’s large gas fireplace, which warmed us before we headed to our rooms and bath-obsessed Michele took a luxurious soak to induce another restful sleep.

The next morning, we made our way down the mountain, witnessing the steady stream of cars heading up for Big Bear Lake’s Memorial Day weekend festivities, including a 5K run and family events. As we continued, we observed that we were above the breathtaking marshmallow-like, white cloud layer. We drove through the mist of the clouds, a dreamy experience to cap off our getaway.

Though we had each visited Big Bear Lake separately — Michele with Mirabel’s dad for her 30th birthday in snowy January, when they focused on a Bald Eagle count, and Mirabel with her dad, stepmother and siblings when she was younger, we had not returned in years. After trying so many shops, restaurants and activities in town and on the shoreline, we appreciated how much this fun, down-to-earth SoCal gem has to offer. We also agreed that Big Bear Lake is most special when you travel there with loved ones.

Mirabel Raphael is a rising sophomore at Yale University, where she studies global affairs, competes as a member of the Yale Debate Team, writes for Yale Daily News and hikes as much as possible.

Michele Raphael is an L.A.- based culture, health, lifestyle and travel writer and editor and proud mom of Mirabel and Leo, a rising high school senior. Find her at @michelebraphael.

Travel as Therapy: Insights from a Psychiatrist

Published

By Elena Epstein

For Nathalie Murphy, M.D., a psychiatrist and assistant professor at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, travel isn’t just about exploring new places — it’s a pathway to emotional well-being, family connection and personal growth. In this Q&A, she shares how even small trips can transform mental health and strengthen bonds.

What are some of the ways that travel promotes well-being?

Travel encompasses a variety of activities that can significantly enhance overall well-being. It offers a valuable opportunity for stress relief by providing a break from daily routines and stressors, serving as a mental reset. Exploring new destinations and engaging in unfamiliar experiences can foster fresh perspectives, spark creativity and improve problem-solving and adaptability skills. When shared with others or through interactions with new people, travel can also reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation.

In addition, travel often encourages physical activity such as walking, hiking or outdoor exploration, which can benefit physical health. Altogether, these elements contribute to a more positive mood and a greater sense of well-being.

Nathalie Murphy, M.D., at a U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team game against Brazil at SoFi Stadium. PHOTO COURTESY NATHALIE MURPHY

What are the mental and emotional benefits of family travel?

Family travel offers a range of unique benefits. For children, exploring new environments, meeting diverse people and experiencing different cultures can positively influence their development. These experiences support growth in language, literacy and social skills, while also broadening their worldview and enhancing their capacity for empathy. Travel encourages children to adapt to new situations, helping build resilience, confidence and independence.

Additionally, family trips create opportunities for collaboration, communication and shared problem-solving, experiences that can deepen connections among family members. For parents, it can be especially fulfilling to guide and witness their child’s personal growth through these moments. Stepping away from the routine of daily life allows families to reconnect, strengthen bonds and make lasting memories together.

What are the benefits of solo travel or a mom’s getaway?

A solo or mom’s getaway can be an excellent way to step back from the demands of daily life and reduce stress. It can provide a much-needed mental “reset,” offering space to reflect, recharge and gain a fresh perspective on yourself and life as a whole. Such getaways also come with meaningful social benefits. They offer opportunities to meet new people or reconnect with old and new friends, often deepening the quality of interactions simply by being in a different, more relaxed environment. Spending time with other parents can be incredibly validating, creating a supportive space to share experiences, challenges and perspectives — and even to problem-solve together.

Given that loneliness is closely linked to increased risks of depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns, taking trips like these can serve as a powerful way to foster connection and emotional well-being.

How can families incorporate the benefits of travel if they don’t have the time or budget for big trips?

Travel is a broad concept that can encompass a wide range of destinations and activities. By definition, it simply means moving from one place to another. To me, the true value of travel lies in breaking free from the routine of everyday life, stepping out of “cruise control” and being intentional and present in the moment.

It’s also important to recognize how social media has shaped people’s perceptions and expectations around travel. The curated images of exotic destinations can lead us to overlook the value of simpler, more accessible experiences. But travel doesn’t have to mean a weeks-long international trip; it can be just as meaningful to take a short drive to a nearby community to attend a free local event or explore a new shop or park.

For example, spending a day together as a family visiting a sporting event, a show, a museum or even a park in a different part of town can bring many of the same benefits as more elaborate trips. I recommend checking out your community’s event page, as well as those of nearby areas, for ideas on low-cost or free events happening near you.

What else do you wish everyone knew about the benefits of travel?

When it comes to travel and its benefits, mindset matters more than the destination. Approaching each experience with presence, openness and gratitude is what truly fosters well-being and creates meaningful, lasting memories — for yourself and for those you share the journey with.

Basking in the Beauty of Banff and Lake Louise

Published

By Elena Epstein

Emerald Lake lies deep in the Yoho Valley. PHOTOS BY ELENA EPSTEIN

For years I dreamed of visiting Lake Louise, a hamlet nestled within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. I would pore over photographs of the lake’s turquoise, glacier-fed waters surrounded by towering peaks and think to myself: “One day.”

My “one day” came last September when my husband and I arrived in the Canadian wonderland for our anniversary. And I can honestly tell you that no photo can capture its true essence. You must see it, feel it, experience it. This fairytale location visited by tourists from all over the world is the ancient home of the Stoney Nakota First Nations, who considered Lake Louise a sacred place where the earth’s energy gathers into a vortex.

When we mention Banff to friends, most aren’t exactly sure where it is, but getting to Banff from L.A. is like going to Seattle or Denver — super easy and just a little over three hours. We took the 7 a.m. flight from LAX into Calgary, picked up our rental car and cruised the scenic Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) to Banff — a beautiful and straightforward 1½-hour drive.  

Elena and Ron Epstein take a photo with the Banff sign. PHOTO COURTESY ELENA EPSTEIN

By 3 p.m., we were munching on cheesy waffle fries, roasted cauliflower and margherita pizza at the Three Bears Brewery in downtown Banff.

We wanted to celebrate our anniversary day in Lake Louise, but since the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a grand alpine resort overlooking the lake’s serene waters, gets pricy during the summer and early fall peak season, we stayed in downtown Banff the first night, spent our anniversary night at the Chateau, then came back to Banff for another two nights.

When we were putting our itinerary together, it sounded like we’d have to endure a lot of driving back and forth, but because the highway is easy to navigate and the views are nonstop, our plan was perfect.

Moraine Lake is located in the Valley of Ten Peaks. PHOTO COURTESY ELENA EPSTEIN

Downtown Banff: A charming base

Banff is a charming town nestled in the Rockies (Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade). The downtown area is walkable and filled with restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, boutiques, art galleries, a grocery store, hotels and two spots to enjoy the famous Beaver Tails (we loved the cinnamon sugar ones).

We made downtown our base, drove to different locations after breakfast and came back in the late afternoon. (There are also public shuttles and buses to take you to various spots in Banff.) In the mornings, we picked up coffee and croissants from Wild Flour Bakery, took a 10-minute walk to the Bow River, found a bench and enjoyed our breakfast to the sound of the river flowing. We strolled the Art in Nature Trail, admiring the unique sculptures and wood carvings by local artists as we made our way to Bow Falls.

When you arrive at the stairs, walk up for even more incredible views. One afternoon, we took a relaxing river float here. If you want a little more exhilaration, rafting is also available.

Lake Louise: A fairytale setting

This glacial lake is a showstopper, but getting here takes a little advance planning during the peak season. There are public shuttles from downtown, but you have to reserve your spot in advance. The drive here is an easy, scenic 50 minutes, but there is only one public parking lot, and it fills up early in the morning.

We chose the fairytale option and spent one night at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, located at the edge of the water. The beauty of this lake will take your breath away. The rock flour carried in the glacial melt that trickles into the lake is what creates the jewel-like, crystal-clear, blue-green color that shimmers in the sun. And when you walk into this historic luxury hotel with the large picture windows framing this magnificent view, you, too, will feel like a prince or princess in a castle.

We spent our day on the lake canoeing the serene, glass-like waters, followed by hiking, dining lakeside and sipping champagne while watching the sunset. We woke up early to catch the sunrise the next morning, but our eyes were drawn again to the lake. Because of the glacial melt, the lake water is always freezing, even in the summer, so swimming is not an option.

Lush view of the Victoria Glacier from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. PHOTO COURTESY FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE

After waking up to Lake Louise, Fairmont guests can take the hotel’s private shuttle to Moraine Lake, located in the Valley of Ten Peaks and only accessible by park shuttles. This gem has a unique beauty of its own, with an intense azure-blue color that’s most spectacular when you climb the Rockpile Trail and see the lake from above. The climb is easy with steps that gently take you to the peak. The unique color is thanks to the rock sediment deposited in the lake by the surrounding glaciers throughout the summer.

Johnston Canyon Hike: Immersed in nature

Jut 30 minutes from downtown, you’ll find a hike that literally immerses you in the canyon with a rushing creek below you, lush trees towering on your right and the polished limestone canyon rock on your left — an incredibly unique experience.

What’s wonderful about this hike is how accessible it is. The suspended catwalks guide you to the lower falls and the upper falls. As I made the gentle climb up, I was in awe of the fact that we were suspended above the water and the treetops of the forest. The metal railings and the paved paths allow all abilities and ages to enjoy this stunning scenery. We saw families with babies, young kids and older couples.

There are benches and viewpoints along the way to savor the scenery even more. There is a store and café at the base if you want to pick up snacks and drinks. We brought our own nuts, fruit and water and found a quiet spot with a great view.

Emerald Lake: Serenity in the Yoho Valley

This serene beauty lies deep in the Yoho Valley and is so worth the hour drive from downtown. The two-hour hiking trail encircles the lake and takes you up close to the effects of a receding glacier. The first half of the hike is filled with dry vegetation, but the second half feels like a tropical island where you’re walking on ancient tree trunks protruding from the ground. Even though there were lots of other hikers, there were moments that felt like we were in our own secluded paradise with glistening water, blue skies and glaciers.

My cousin Tina and her family had visited Banff and the surrounding lakes during the summer, and when I called her to get some insider tips, she had the best description of her trip: “There were times that I looked out and I thought to myself: ‘This is what heaven must look like.’”

My thoughts exactly.

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is surrounded by turquoise waters and the majestic Canadian Rockies. PHOTO COURTESY FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE

Good to Know

  • Take comfortable, casual clothes that you can layer. Evenings and early mornings are cold, even in the summer months. Take two pairs of shoes. I took my Brooks sneakers that I usually walk in and my Brooks trail running shoes for the hikes. You’ll go through mud and dirt, and most likely there will be some rain.
  • You’ll need a Park Pass for Banff National Park. It’ll be easier to buy online before you go so that you can bypass the line at the park gate.
  • Canoe on at least one lake. Each one is spectacular.
  • Reserve your spot early for Parks Canada Shuttles.
  • Check out Roam Public Transit for tips on getting around Banff.

Elena Epstein is Creative Director of L.A. Parent and mom of two daughters.

How to Plan a Successful Multifamily Vacation

Published

By Amelia Lopez

Elizabeth Amezcua’s extended family. PHOTO COURTESY ELIZABETH AMEZCUA

Family getaways are an essential part of my summer planning. As a single mom working in the sports industry, my year is often packed with travel for work, leaving little time to unwind with my two boys. But when summer rolls around, I prioritize stress-free vacations that align with their school break.

Building memorable moments for my children to look back on is always top of mind for me. Planning family trips isn’t always easy, especially because our vacations often include our extended family. Coming from a big family that loves spending time together — including my oldest brother and his three kids — means accommodating a large group with individual interests. So how can group travel with kids — whether with extended family or your favorite friends — truly succeed? I spoke with parents and experts to uncover the best tips for planning your dream family vacation.

Not all travel budgets are equal

“Fundamentals are the building blocks of fun,” actor Mikhail Baryshnikov once said, and part of those fundamentals involve discussing finances — even if it is a touchy subject. Elizabeth Amezcua, who is a mom to three daughters and a part-time travel agent, says her job can get complicated when her traveling hopefuls haven’t discussed travel costs as a group.

Amelia Lopez with her sons at Disney World. PHOTO COURTESY AMY LOPEZ

“Don’t come to a travel agent if your entire group hasn’t agreed on a price range,” she shares. “It’s impossible to ask someone to plan a trip for [five] families and each family has their own budget but wants the same things. Don’t be inflexible unless you have the money to be so.”

A conversation surrounding budget-friendly group travel is especially crucial when it comes to lodging, and in her experience, there’s a better option than what people initially choose.

“They think they want houses — until they realize all the work [required]: shopping, cooking, cleaning,” Amezcua says. “I try to get families into suites in resorts. Much less work. Better activities and accommodations for everyone.” 

Consider the nuanced art of travel planning

When it comes to multifamily vacation planning, “multi” and “planning” are doing a lot of the heavy lifting. Understanding those two elements for what they are and how they apply to every group that’s part of the vacation allows plans to flow as they need.

For Marilyn Lopez, mom of 4-year-old Mila, has gone on several multifamily vacations, and it’s helped to have someone else take initiative when it comes to laying out the game plan.

A multigenerational, multifamily ride on public transportation. PHOTO COURTESY ELIZABETH AMEZCUA

“We’re usually traveling every other month on short weekend getaways with close friends and almost always someone is the leader,” Lopez says. “We are heading out to Palm Springs soon with five adults and four kids, and one of the neighbors organized all of it. We all get along, so it’s good synergy.”

Lopez says these trips are typically planned close to when the trip is going to take place because the “multi” aspect of it is limited to a small number of children within the overall group.

This doesn’t work for bigger groups like Amezcua’s that require lots of prep beforehand. “In June 2024, we went to Portland for a family wedding and had to plan daily activities (zoo, river, children’s museum) for 10 kids and 12 adults,” she says. “We plan those pretty far in advance — maybe two to three months.”

And keep smaller logistical items in mind. Jennifer Silvers, a mom of three and a development psychology professor at UCLA, travels with her family throughout the country — New York, Florida and Portland — to go spend time with loved ones. She prepares by ordering essential items to be shipped to those locations.

Cousins in Elizabeth Amezcua’s family don matching pajamas. PHOTO COURTESY ELIZABETH AMEZCUA

“Sometimes, if we’re going someplace where we know we’re going to stay at someone’s house, we will order things like diapers to be delivered there ahead of time,” Silvers says. This eases their packing burdens.

Navigating boundaries and balance

“Building community is always a positive, but I think it’s important to sit down ahead of [time] and talk about what everyone’s limits are,” says Laura Dotson, a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Hermosa Beach.

The adults are running the show, and for Dotson, that means having a group understanding on everything from bedtime routines to eating habits and conflict resolution. Increasing the number of children means increasing the possibilities of conflicts to arise.

“When it’s just the adult relationships initiating it, it wouldn’t even come up. But now that children are involved, [conflict] needs to be talked about ahead of time,” she says.

Having children of different ages on trips can be enriching, mom Victoria Marin says. PHOTO COURTESY VICTORIA MARIN

This also applies to balancing activities for all ages. While some families mentioned older children helping with babysitting duties for adults to have date nights during these trips, Dotson advises that unless the older children have consented, pressing them to babysit can be manipulative.

Victoria Marin, a New York-based single co-parent of a daughter, says that during her trip to Connecticut with a close friend who has two daughters, they integrated adult time into their beach vacation, thanks to her friend’s family nanny.

“We were able to watch our children enjoy themselves from a distance, have the nanny help out and enjoy our alone time catching up with each other,” she says.

Still, mixing ages has its advantages on these types of trips because it allows for more creative collaborations — from playing together to older children teaching younger ones how to tie their shoes. “As we’re learning social skills and other skills as well, the best people to learn that from are those who recently mastered them,” Dotson says.

Adapt as necessary

This touch point feels particularly personal to me. My oldest son has autism, and many of the family trips we plan alongside my brother’s family and children require me to be aware of how the environment we are visiting will impact him.

When we planned a visit to Disneyland, I needed to call ahead of time to understand exactly how the disability access services (DAS) pass worked to explain to my nephews how we would handle going on rides as a group. Thankfully, it worked seamlessly, and we had a wonderful time. The kids were very happy to be able to go straight to the front of lines.

We’ll also typically add a trip to Dave & Buster’s to our itinerary because it’s a place my son tolerates quite well and the neurotypical children in our group equally enjoy.

Silvers’ eldest daughter, 7-year-old Eloise, is visually impaired, which causes her to have disruptive sleep patterns, so her family now travels with an inflatable tent that she sleeps in wherever they go.  

“It’s the best investment we’ve ever made, but it’s another thing we have to think about,” Silvers says. “It’s heavy; we have to bring it on the plane. [The tent] reduces the stress, but it means she can’t just sleep anywhere. But we’ve made it work.”

Whether it’s accommodating disabilities or ensuring everyone is comfortable with the itinerary, flexibility is key. Another critical aspect of this adaptability is food. Keeping everyone fueled and happy requires careful preparation, especially when traveling with multiple kids. Always have snacks ready. For the flights. During activities. Even for when you’re preparing meals or on your way out to eat.

Also, accept that you’re going to stop to eat and use the bathroom a lot.

 “If my husband and I are traveling by ourselves, we’ll see five things a day, but with the kids, we’re going to do one, maybe two,” Silvers says.

Trust the process and just have fun

That “dream vacation” I mentioned earlier? At the end of the day, parents and experts agree: Just let that fantasy go. Rather, strive for a flexible vacation. Planning and tips are nice, but the main goal is to lose yourself in the-more-the-merrier experience that is multifamily vacationing.

“Relax and let it all go. Let go of the schedule, the food, the bed and nap times. Everyone is here to have fun and let loose,” Amezcua says.

“There’s a joy we get in just being together,” Marin says.

Lopez, agrees, pushing it a bit further. Ditch the itinerary, she says. “As long as there’s good weather and a pool or beach nearby, you’re set.” 

Amelia Lopez is a Hawthorne-based communications and PR manager for TMJ and ThinkFuera. She’s been featured on Sports Illustrated, Yahoo Sports and the Premier League for her knowledge and passion about soccer. She is also mother to two boys and an advocate for children and adults with autism.

Escape to Oxnard This Summer to Explore These Activities, Best Eats and Places to Stay

Published

Summer is nearly here — have you planned your family’s getaway? Experience Oxnard, the perfect beach town where OX Marks the Spot for your budget-friendly escape with beautiful beaches and immaculate SoCal vibes.

Best Oxnard Beaches

Nestled a beat past Los Angeles up Highway 101 lies Oxnard, equal parts vibrant and laid back. The city offers seven miles of uncrowded beaches, waterfront dining, and tons of budget-friendly fun for everyone.

Silver Strand Beach is a local favorite for good reason. This mile-long stretch is tucked between the Port Hueneme Naval Base and the Channel Islands Harbor, making it a prime spot for surfing, sunbathing, kayaking or fishing! 

Did you know Oxnard is home to Hollywood Beach? Well, it is! Legends like Clark Gable and Rudolph Valentino were known to hang out in the area and add to this beach’s historic charm. Now open to the public, it’s perfect for days of sun and surf.

‘Rocks’nard – For the Music Lovers

Yep, you heard that right! Oxnard strikes the right chord with its music scene. While you’re hear, kick back and enjoy the sounds of summer.

Start with the Heritage Square Summer Concert Series in historic downtown Oxnard. Bring a blanket, a picnic and catch live R&B, Latin jazz and classic rock under the stars. Then catch the summer Concerts by the Sea on Saturdays and The Collection at Riverpark on Thursday nights for live sets by the shore. 

Throughout the year, Oxnard keeps the party going with the Jazz Festival, California Strawberry Festival and Salsa Festival.

Free and Affordable Oxnard Activities

Drums Tour: DW Drums’ world headquarters opens its doors to give visitors a peek into crafting their renowned drums. The tour even includes a quick tuning lesson. Call (805) 485-6999, ext. 450, to secure a spot before your visit.

Channel Island Kayak Wildlife Tour: Explore the Channel Islands Harbor by kayak, meet “Chippy” the life-sized pygmy mammoth and keep an eye out for sea lions, starfish and pirate treasure!

Channel Islands Maritime Museum: Collections of maritime paintings, ship models and artifacts, including one of the largest ship models made of bones, await museum visitors. Admission is free for kids under 18.

Classic Car Shows: Cruise into nostalgia with Downtown Oxnard’s Summer Car Show and Cruise Nights on second Fridays from May through July.

Best Eats in Oxnard

 The Strandwich: The perfect spot to grab a bite by the beach, surrounded by “Nardcore” punk memorabilia.

Cafe Dolce Vita: If you need coffee before you can have thoughts, try this cafe in Downtown Oxnard. Get your coffee fix and a sandwich or a macaroon! Who says a SoCal beach vacation can’t have international vibes??

Fisherman’s Catch: Fisherman’s Catch is the best place to get coconut shrimp, calamari, lobster and more — all caught daily and at prices that make the food taste that much better.

The Annex Food Hall: The ultimate “something-for-everyone” dining destination, with 13 food vendors and shops nearby!

Honeycup Coffeehouse & Creamery: Coffee, smoothies and ice cream, oh my! At Honeycup, you can have it all, including ice cream handmade by a master chef!

Where to Stay

Whether you’re planning a laid-back beach weekend or a luxury escape with the whole crew, Oxnard has just the place to rest your sandy feet.

Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach was named the No. 1 Best New Hotel in the U.S. by USA Today’s 2024 10 Best Reader’s Choice Awards. This all-suite beachfront resort rivals spots like Terranea in Palos Verdes and the Ritz Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara. If you want luxury with kid-friendly amenities, more room to breathe and less of the price tag, Zachari Dunes delivers. It’s where oceanfront elegance meets relaxed family fun.

Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor brings the waterfront vibes. It sits on the scenic boardwalk, between the beloved Toppers Pizza and Peninsula Park (home of the Concerts by the Sea series). With two easily accessible public docks just steps away, it’s a breeze to launch a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy a fun, family-friendly day out on the water.

For the sporty family, Staybridge Suites features Dallas Cowboys Training Camp memorabilia in the lobby and gives fans of America’s Team something to brag about. River Ridge Golf Club is conveniently next door.

Prefer something with homier comfort? Homewood Suites is perfect for longer stays with apartment-style living, basketball courts, BBQ grills and freeway convenience.

Book Your Stay in Oxnard Today!

Angelenos looking to escape the heat and crowded beaches will find cool ocean breezes and laid-back vibes right up the coast. Why shell out more elsewhere when you can soak up the sun for less in Oxnard? Plan your stay at https://visitoxnard.com. Then pack your sunscreen, grab the kids and get ready to discover where OX Marks the Spoton a memorable family vacation.

An Island Retreat at Catalina White’s Landing

Published

By the Catalina Team

A Family Adventure at Catalina White’s Landing
Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature at Catalina White’s Landing, a new family camp nestled along the largest beach of Catalina Island, just off the coast of Southern California. This idyllic getaway is designed for families looking to immerse themselves in outdoor adventures and create unforgettable memories together. 

Discover the Natural Beauty of Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a hidden gem of Southern California, offering stunning landscapes, charming rocky hills, wide sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. Families staying at Catalina White’s Landing can explore what the island has to offer, with activities such as kayaking, hiking and wildlife watching. Whether it’s taking a peaceful morning walk along the beach or an exciting boat excursion to discover marine life, you’ll be mesmerized by the charm and beauty of the island. 

Sleep Under the Stars in the Heart of Nature
At Catalina White’s Landing, you’ll share your passion for the great outdoors with your loved ones. Whether you stay in a cozy beach cabin or a ready-to-camp tent, your accommodation is thoughtfully placed within a stunning natural setting. Fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up recharged, ready for a day full of adventure. It’s the perfect way to escape for a weekend and enjoy fantastic vacations. 

Travel Light, Camp Comfortably
Reconnect with your summer-camp memories and enjoy a stress-free vacation. Fully equipped tents and beachside cabins include cozy beds with extra blankets and pillows, some equipped with kitchen essentials and an optional linen and towel package is as well available. This allows families to travel light and focus on their experience. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed for comfort, providing the perfect blend between a rustic and cozy experience. Families who decide to take the all-inclusive package will also enjoy three meals a day, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy your stay. 

All-Inclusive Family Camp
For the ultimate stress-free experience, the camp offers an all-inclusive family camp package. This includes three meals a day buffet-style, and an activity program tailored for all ages. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the family camp package ensures you have everything you need for an unforgettable vacation and for you to create lasting memories. 

Littles Trappeurs: Morning Adventures for the little ones
At the camp, children can participate in the Littles Trappeurs activities, a morning adventure designed to embrace their adventurous side. Supervised by an experienced camp instructor, children will build tipis, go on treasure hunts and initiate at bows and arrows. These outdoor focused activities provide a perfect opportunity for parents to unwind and enjoy some relaxing time, while knowing their little ones are having fun. 

A Typical Day at Family Camp
Let us take you through a typical day at the family camp. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the main lodge, where families gather before embarking on a day filled with adventures. Kids can enhance their creativity with the Little Trappeurs program, crafting adventurers’ books, while parents can enjoy a run along the beach or some quiet time. After a hearty lunch, the afternoon offers various options, from relaxing on the beach to participating in volleyball tournaments or exploring nearby trails. As evening falls, families enjoy the breathtaking sunset, followed by a nice dinner, and end the day with an outdoor movie under the stars, by the sound of the waves. 

How To Get There
To reach the camp, we recommend taking a ferry from Long Beach, San Pedro, Newport Beach or Dana Point to Avalon. From Avalon, you’ll catch a short water taxi ride directly to Catalina White’s landing camp, where your adventure begins. We recommend booking your ferry tickets and water taxi in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival. 

An Unforgettable Experience
Whether it’s seeing dolphins for the first time among your loved ones or sharing stories around the campfire, Catalina White’s Landing is the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. In other words, this island retreat is the ideal getaway for families looking to escape and reconnect with what truly matters.

Want more information? Call Catalina White’s Landing at (657) 204-5526 or email catalina@huttopia.com.

After that, let the fun begin!
#VisitCatalina #FamilyCamp #FamilyGetaway #CatalinaIsland #ExploreCatalina #VisitCalifornia #BeachSide #BeachCamping #CampLife

What to Do For a Day of Family Fun in the OC

Published

By Esther Carlstone

Just an hour away from Los Angeles, Orange County makes for the perfect day trip or staycation, especially in the summer. From a sensory garden and children’s museum to beaches and petting zoos, this post is complete with fun ideas for what to do in the OC that the whole family will enjoy.

Balboa Fun Zone

Take an auto ferry from Newport to Balboa Island to play games at the arcade, take a ride on the Ferris wheel, indulge in sweet treats and, basically, live life like you’re on the boardwalks of yesteryear. balboafunzone.com

Pretend City Children’s Museum

Pretend City is a role-playing wonderland dotted with tot-sized replicas. PHOTO COURTESY PRETEND CITY

Located in Irvine, little ones will adore this role-playing wonderland dotted with tot-sized replicas of places such as the post office, a movie theater, a farm and even a Trader Joe’s to create an entire mini city. There are costumes, arts and crafts, exhibits and special events to entertain the kids all day long. pretendcity.org

Zoomars at River Street Ranch

We’ve been to several birthday parties here, and it’s always a hit for both kids and adults alike. There are petting zoos, pony rides, mining, a train ride, a playground and even mini tractors and excavators the kids can ride and work on. It’s located in San Juan Capistrano, so you can pair this with a stroll around the famous missions afterward. riverstreetranch.com

Adventure Playground

This vast playground in Irvine has massive Lego blocks, a treehouse, sensory garden, fort zone, mud area and so much more. Just remember to bring a change of clothes, as chances that the kids will get wet or muddy are high. In case they need some quiet time after all the play, the playground is conveniently located right next to a library. cityofirvine.org/parks-facilities/adventure-playground

Book a boat for a memorable half day out at sea.
PHOTO BY ESTHER CARLSTONE

Whale Watching in Dana Point

As an OC native, I remember seeing whales and dolphins at all times of the year from the beach. Book a boat from a reputable company such as Captain Dave’s Whale & Dolphin Watching Safari for a memorable half day out at sea. dolphinsafari.com

Hit the Beach

Orange County has no shortage of world-renowned beaches — from Crystal Cove State Park to Laguna Beach. Main Beach, the most popular stretch of beach in Laguna, has a playground for kids and easy access to Park Street, which is filled with shops and eateries. And don’t forget the beloved Huntington Pier, which is one of the longest piers on the West Coast and offers panoramic views spanning Catalina Island, Long Beach, San Pedro and Newport Beach.

For more ways to spend a day in the OC, visit our full roundup.

Esther Carlstone is a parenting and travel writer/editor who’s always looking for the best places to see, eat and stay with kids.

L.A. Gardens Are the New Summer Night Oasis

Published

Nina Harada

From full moon walks, activities during sunset and twilight strolls, this roundup of L.A. garden events showcases all of the ways you and your family can take advantage of summer nights.

Stroll the stunning gardens at The Huntington after hours on July 7, 14, 28 and Aug. 11 and 18. PHOTO COURTESY THE HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART MUSEUM, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS

Sunset Series at South Coast Botanic Garden

June 20-Aug. 29, 5:30 p.m.
26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Peninsula

Roam South Coast Botanic Garden’s 87 acres afterhours during the summer Sunset Series every Thursday night. Play yard games, grab a bite or cocktail and enjoy live music. Head to the kids’ zone, where Ms. Allison will entertain little ones with parachutes, obstacle courses, bubbles and more. $15-18 for ages 5 and up; free for ages 4 and under. southcoastbotanicgarden.org

Pro tip: While every Thursday features a special musical guest, we recommend visiting the gardens on July 25 for John Williams Night with the PV Symphonic Band, a 40-piece community ensemble with professional and amateur musicians of all ages.

Forest Bathing at The LA Arboretum

July 21, 8 p.m., Aug. 18-19, 7 p.m.
301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia

Deepen your connection with nature, calm your nervous system and engage your senses during this unique forest bathing experience, inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin yoku. A certified forest therapy guide will guide you through the gardens during these full moon walks. $25-$35. arboretum.org

Pro tip: This one is for the tweens, teens and grownups. Bring your kids ages 12 and up to slow down for a moment during your busy summer.

Rusalka by Pacific Opera Project at Descanso Gardens

July 12-14, 19-21, 7:30-10 p.m.
1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge

L.A.-based Pacific Opera Project returns to the main lawn at Descanso Gardens with “Rusalka.” Written in 1901 by Czech composer Antonin Dvořák, this fairytale opera was the original inspiration for Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid.”  POP’s version will be presented with orchestra and sung in English. $20-$55.  descansogardens.org

Pro tip: Food and dinner will be available for purchase, so come early for dinner before the show.

Twilight Garden Strolls at The Huntington

July 7, 14 and 28, 4:30-8 p.m.; Aug. 11 and 18, 4:30-7:30 p.m.
1151 Oxford Road, San Marino

Twilight strolls return to The Huntington for six Sundays this summer. Cool off and explore the gardens after 5 p.m., when day turns to dusk. Most gardens will be open, along with The Huntington Store, 1919 Café and hot food stations. $5-$20. huntington.org

Pro tip: Although the Children’s Garden will be closed, kids will still enjoy running free through one of The Huntington’s many lawns.

To find more activities and entertainment for summer nights in L.A., visit our full roundup.

Nina Harada is Digital Editor of L.A. Parent

A Family Day in the OC: Where to Eat, Play and Stay

Published

Esther Carlstone

Orange County is just an hour away from Los Angeles, but for Angelenos it often feels like an entirely different world. As someone who grew up in the OC, I love taking day trips with my three kids to introduce them to the places I used to love to frequent — and to discover new ones along the way.

The short distance, combined with tons of family-friendly activities, easy beach access and top-notch food choices, make the OC an ideal day trip for those idle summer days when you’re wondering: “What should I do with the kids today?”

What to Do

Balboa Fun Zone

Take an auto ferry from Newport to Balboa Island to play games at the arcade, take a ride on the Ferris wheel, indulge in sweet treats and, basically, live life like you’re on the boardwalks of yesteryear. balboafunzone.com

Pretend City Children’s Museum

Pretend City is a role-playing wonderland dotted with tot-sized replicas. PHOTO COURTESY PRETEND CITY

Located in Irvine, little ones will adore this role-playing wonderland dotted with tot-sized replicas of places such as the post office, a movie theater, a farm and even a Trader Joe’s to create an entire mini city. There are costumes, arts and crafts, exhibits and special events to entertain the kids all day long. pretendcity.org

Zoomars at River Street Ranch

We’ve been to several birthday parties here, and it’s always a hit for both kids and adults alike. There are petting zoos, pony rides, mining, a train ride, a playground and even mini tractors and excavators the kids can ride and work on. It’s located in San Juan Capistrano, so you can pair this with a stroll around the famous missions afterward. riverstreetranch.com

Adventure Playground

This vast playground in Irvine has massive Lego blocks, a treehouse, sensory garden, fort zone, mud area and so much more. Just remember to bring a change of clothes, as chances that the kids will get wet or muddy are high. In case they need some quiet time after all the play, the playground is conveniently located right next to a library. cityofirvine.org/parks-facilities/adventure-playground

Book a boat for a memorable half day out at sea.
PHOTO BY ESTHER CARLSTONE

Whale Watching in Dana Point

As an OC native, I remember seeing whales and dolphins at all times of the year from the beach. Book a boat from a reputable company such as Captain Dave’s Whale & Dolphin Watching Safari for a memorable half day out at sea. dolphinsafari.com

Hit the Beach

Orange County has no shortage of world-renowned beaches — from Crystal Cove State Park to Laguna Beach. Main Beach, the most popular stretch of beach in Laguna, has a playground for kids and easy access to Park Street, which is filled with shops and eateries. And don’t forget the beloved Huntington Pier, which is one of the longest piers on the West Coast and offers panoramic views spanning Catalina Island, Long Beach, San Pedro and Newport Beach.

Where to Eat

Hello Kitty Grand Cafe

ICYMI, America’s only Hello Kitty Cafe is only an hour away. This huge pink wonderland for Sanrio fans young and old is in the Irvine Spectrum Center. Make sure not to miss Hello Kitty’s signature afternoon tea (reservations required) — or just pop in for a coffee and sweets. sanrio.com

Las Brisas

This iconic Laguna Beach restaurant has been around for ages and boasts an amazing weekend brunch with stunning ocean views. Even after I moved up to L.A., my family would meet here regularly for brunch — kids in tow — then head down the hill to Main Beach afterward. lasbrisaslagunabeach.com

La Sirena Grill

This is my go-to for a more casual Laguna Beach lunch option. I used to frequent the tiny cottage La Sirena Grill started in back in the day, and the restaurant has since opened up a much larger outpost, still serving the delicious fresh Mexican food it’s known for. The kids gobble up the carne asada quesadillas while I opt for the filling burritos. lasirenagrill.com

Heritage BBQ

Some claim it’s the best Texas barbecue in California. All I know is it’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Just know wait times get long for this Michelin-honored eatery (as in people bring lawn chairs and start camping out in the morning), so you may need to designate a person to wait while the other explores the adorable downtown San Juan Capistrano area. heritagecraftbbq.com

Where to Stay

If you want to make it a staycation instead of driving back in one day, check out some beloved hotels in the area. 

Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa is close to Dana Point Harbor. PHOTO BY ESTHER CARLSTONE

Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa

With close proximity to the Dana Point Harbor and San Juan Capistrano missions, this gorgeous resort is a great home base for exploring southern Orange County. I recently stayed here with my kids, and we spent the day playing on the great lawn, enjoying movie night, swimming and walking to the nearby playground. marriott.com

Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim

If you’re planning a Disney trip, this hotel has spacious rooms for families, a water park in the pool area and, best of all, is a short walk to both Disney entrances. Some rooms even boast a view of Disneyland, so you can watch the nightly fireworks from the comfort of your own room. marriott.com

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach

Staying here as an L.A. local makes you feel like you’ve traveled to some epic beach vacation without all the travel time. hyatt.com

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach

Luxuriate in generously sized rooms, award-winning dining and three sparkling pools at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach. PHOTO BY ESTHER CARLSTONE

If you really want to splurge, you can’t get better than this stunning resort with generously sized rooms to accommodate families, award-winning dining, three sparkling pools and access to the Monarch Bay Beach Club. waldorfastoriamonarchbeach.com

Esther Carlstone is a parenting and travel writer/editor who’s always looking for the best places to see, eat and stay with kids. 

Great Local Farms and Nature Escapes 

Published

By Emily Ip

Yearning for a slice of rural bliss amidst the urban sprawl? The summer is the perfect time to explore the diverse farm and nature experiences in and around Los Angeles. Whether you’re looking for a farm tour, a peaceful sanctuary visit or a chance to pick your own fresh produce, this curated roundup will help you reconnect to the earth and bring joy to your little ones. 

Kids can meet farm animals and pick fruit at Tanaka Farms in Irvine. PHOTO COURTESY TANAKA FARMS

Tanaka Farms: Located in Irvine, Tanaka Farms offers an array of u-pick tours where you can harvest your own seasonal fruits and vegetables. Kids will love meeting the friendly farm animals, and the farm’s educational tours make for a fun and informative day out. tanakafarms.com/u-pick-farm-tours

Pick fruits and vegetables and meet animals at Underwood Family Farms and other area farms. 
PHOTOS COURTESY UNDERWOOD FAMILY FARMS

Underwood Family Farms: Head to Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark for a delightful experience picking your own fruits and vegetables. With a petting zoo and seasonal festivals, this farm provides endless entertainment and fresh produce to take home.underwoodfamilyfarms.com/pick-your-own

Farm Sanctuary: Visit the Los Angeles branch of Farm Sanctuary to meet rescued farm animals and learn about their stories. This sanctuary provides a peaceful retreat and an educational experience about animal welfare. farmsanctuary.org/the-sanctuaries/los-angeles-ca

Gilchrist Farm: Nestled in Santa Clarita, Gilchrist Farm offers a variety of activities, from farm tours and horseback riding to a charming petting zoo. It’s a great spot for families to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor adventures. gilchristfarm.com

Picking from the abundance of sweet summer strawberries. PHOTOS COURTESY UNDERWOOD FAMILY FARMS

Kfar Saba Urban Farm: At this rescue farm in Winnetka, you can support its mission of animal care and enjoy the simple pleasures of farm life. Follow updates for volunteer opportunities and events. facebook.com/kfarsabaurbanfarm

Manassero Farms: Manassero Farms in Irvine is another fantastic destination for u-pick fun. Enjoy the fresh air as you gather your own produce and learn about sustainable farming practices. manasserofarms.com/experience

Canzelle Alpacas: For an unforgettable encounter, visit Canzelle Alpacas in Somis. These farm tours include up-close interactions with alpacas, making for a picture-perfect day out. canzelle.com

Families meet the farm animals. PHOTOS COURTESY UNDERWOOD FAMILY FARMS

Cherry picking: There’s still time to catch the end of cherry season, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by picking your own at these local cherry farms. Keep an eye on their websites for the upcoming picking dates. cherriesupick.com

L.A. Green Grounds: Join the grassroots movement with L.A. Green Grounds in South L.A., where you can learn to cultivate your own edible garden. Volunteer for a “Dig-In” or attend a class to gain green-thumb skills that will flourish in your backyard. lagreengrounds.org

Wattles Farm: Get involved with the community at Wattles Farm in Hollywood. The volunteer events here are a great way to give back while enjoying the serenity of the historic gardens. Mark your calendar for a clean-up weekend or a leisurely visit. wattlesfarm.com

Fun Snacks for On-the-Go Kids (and Parents!)

Published

By Emily Ip

The bento snack boxes of carrot sticks with hummus or yogurt parfaits you’ve seen on Pinterest are great, but what about the days when you need a snack that can sit unrefrigerated for hours on end, or when you don’t have the energy to prepare something? Whether your kids are hopping from summer camp to sports to enrichment programs, or spending more time playing outside this summer, I’m sure their hunger for snacks is only growing. But after a school year of lunch packing, you deserve a little break, too! Read along for a few of my favorite shelf-friendly snacks that you’ll want to keep in your pantry all year long.

Biena Roasted Chickpea Snacks: Munching on these flavorful and crunchy roasted chickpeas makes for an unexpectedly satisfying snack. They remind me a little of corn nuts (minus the tough exterior), which makes this a perfect snack for children with braces who are missing their usual crunchy snacks. Rotate between sea salt, ranch, barbecue, honey roasted, everything bagel and habanero flavors. Added bonus: Each serving packs in 5 grams of fiber and protein.

MadeGood Granola Minis: These bite-sized granola balls include a few extra nutrients (thanks to vegetable extracts) and are the perfect little bite to tide you over. Whether your kids are sharing their snacks or have food allergies, all of MadeGood’s products are made in a facility free of all common allergens. The granola minis come in a variety of flavors such as cookies and cream, chocolate chip and strawberry, but the banana chocolate chip is my favorite!

Simple Mills Almond Crackers: Pair with sliced cheese, dips and spreads, or enjoy these crackers just as they are. The nut and seed flour blend, comprised of almonds, sunflower and flax seeds, adds a slight toasty, nutty flavor to this crunchy, salty snack that levels up your standard cracker. If and when your family tires of them, try the rosemary and sea salt, sun-dried tomato basil, black pepper or farmhouse cheddar flavors, too. I love getting these crackers in a two-pack at Costco, and I have also seen them sold in an individually wrapped variety.

LesserEvil Popcorn: Popcorn is my favorite snack of all time, so when I discovered LesserEvil, I was hooked. Although I can catch them on sale sometimes, I’ll admit it’s a tad pricier than the average bag of popcorn. The reason I justify it? Their kernels pop up bigger and fluffier than any other variety I’ve tried — and I’ve tried many brands of popcorn! Most plain sea salt popcorns taste a little flat, but LesserEvil’s use of coconut oil adds a slight buttery flavor to the original variety and amplifies the brand’s “Himalayan Gold” butter variety. For kettle corn lovers, try the “Himalayan Sweetness.”

Annie’s Homegrown Bunny Fruit Snacks: Sure, fresh and ripe fruit is bountiful in the summertime, but that doesn’t mean we can’t appreciate some fruit snack gummies, too! The cute little bunny shape of Annie’s snacks makes these gummies even more fun. The individually wrapped snack packs come in strawberry, tropical and berry flavors.

Ranch Sweet Potato Chips: The natural, subtle sweetness of sweet potatoes adds something new to your average potato chip — especially the ranch flavor. I’ve seen the sea salt variety at my local Costco, with ranch, barbecue and jalapeño flavors at my local grocers. Pop open a bag at your next pool day, kids’ playdate or day at the park.

Skout Organic Snack Bar: Sweetened with dates, these bars lend a softer chewiness perfect for younger kids. The smaller size of these bars adds to their toddler-friendly profile, with the extra bonus of making a great it’s-almost-dinnertime bite. The cute cartoons on the packaging and flavors such as apple pie, peanut butter and jelly, French toast and almond cookie make these bars a fun and tasty option.

Emily Ip is an editorial intern at L.A. Parent.

2024 Summer Fun Guide

Published

Our friends at the National Parenting Product Awards have put together a list of their favorite summer toys, books, puzzles, games and gear in their annual Summer Fun Guide. The guide includes over 100 NAPPA Award-winning products that have been tested and evaluated. From outdoor toys to summer reads, this guide will help you and your family have a blast all summer long.

NAPPA Awards is a family-focused brand with a mission to “showcase the best toys, learning tools, games, books, music, baby, family and home products.” It has been serving families for more than 34 years.

For even more product reviews, check out nappaawards.com.

Playing in Portland: High-Density Family Fun

Published

By Shelley Gaske

Portland is a great place for the whole family to play. PHOTO COURTESY TRAVEL PORTLAND

Portland has a reputation for being a little unusual. The phrase “Keep Portland Weird” is often said with great pride — and that kooky magic is great for kids of all ages.

Even with a population of 700,000, downtown Portland presents an intimate, walkable city. It’s a place rich with epic nature opportunities, educational fun and quality family time. Thanks to Portland’s light rail (MAX), bus and streetcar system, every activity here is doable without a car. Visit trimet.org to download the mobile app that will help you get around the city with ease. Single-day passes are under $6 for adults and under $3 for those under 18 (kids under 6 ride free).

In addition to the major highlights here, there are dozens of more parks, playgrounds, art museums, restaurants, shops and markets. Whether you’re looking for a jam-packed weekend or a multi-day exploration, Portland will give the family a mini break to remember.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Portland’s Chinese Garden takes up a city block, providing a unique downtown oasis. Designed with Portland’s sister city in China, Suzhou, the garden emphasizes the beauty in each moment. Families can take a tour to learn about the thoughtful design and history of the buildings, plants and pond, go on a lost treasure hunt audio adventure, try brush painting or calligraphy and catch plant talks put on by Lan Su’s horticulture department. For a moment of Zen, sip tea and enjoy a snack at the teahouse. It’s a great place to hit pause and recollect after (or before) other adventures. lansugarden.org

Portland’s Chinese Garden takes up a city block, providing a unique downtown oasis. PHOTO COURTESY CHARLIE ZHANG

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry makes learning science fun. PHOTO COURTESY OMSI

OMSI is a staple for Oregon kids and adults, and for good reason. Families can tour the U.S. Navy’s last active-duty diesel-electric submarine, visit with paleontologists while they work on real dinosaur fossils and catch immersive shows in the Kendall Planetarium. “OMSI is home to four hands-on lab spaces that explore chemistry, physics, life sciences and paleontology,” says OMSI Communications Manager Annemarie Eayers.

In the first-ever “wet” chemistry lab in a museum space, visitors can strap on safety goggles and conduct their own chemistry experiments. In addition to the labs, there are design and art stations, water tables and an earthquake simulation house. Many activities are geared toward school-aged kids, but at OMSI no one is left out. “For our youngest learners, we also have a lab called the Discovery Lab inside OMSI’s Science Playground, which is a play-centered space dedicated to explorers 0-6 years old and their families,” Eayes says. It’s easy to spend a whole day exploring, and it’s worth another visit minus the kids.

“For adults,” Eayers adds, “OMSI After Dark is for the 21-and-over only crowd, where you can drink beer or wine and roam the museum with no kids around. We have science demos, performances and DJs.” Science has never been so fun. omsi.edu

Powell’s City of Books

Powell’s City of Books spans three stories, nine rooms and 68,000 square feet. PHOTO COURTESY TRAVEL PORTLAND

What started as a used bookstore in a converted car dealership has become a touchpoint for readers worldwide. Powell’s City of Books (the 1005 W. Burnside St. location) now spans three stories, nine rooms and 68,000 square feet, housing new, used and rare books. Thankfully, there are plenty of benches and quiet spots to sneak in some reading.

Author events occur nearly every evening, and a children’s story time (usually read by the author of the featured book) takes place every Saturday morning. With friendly staff willing to track down the book you’re looking for, a spacious cafe for reading and chatting and piles of Portland souvenirs, leave some room in your suitcase for all your loot. powells.com

Oregon Zoo

Washington Park is a 400-acre park housing The World Forestry Museum, The Portland Japanese Garden, Hoyt Arboretum, picnic areas, playgrounds and miles of hiking paths. The highlights are all connected by the Washington Park shuttle (which is free in the summer). But there’s room for one more main attraction: The Oregon Zoo!

The Oregon Zoo is located inside Portland’s 400-acre Washington Park. PHOTO BY MICHAEL DURHAM

Tucked between the World Forestry Museum and the convenient MAX stop, there’s something for every animal lover. Krista Swan, the former director of marketing for the Oregon Zoo, shares that there are “daily animal activities [featuring] opportunities to talk directly with the keepers and animal care staff and watch the animals get extra enrichment toys and food treats.” Featured animals change periodically, but currently include crocodiles, bats, chimpanzees and penguins.

Every day in the summer, from 11 a.m. to noon, Swan suggests attending “Wildlife Live,” which provides animal training demonstrations. If you visit on a Friday, consider blocking out time for Zoo Nights. The zoo stays open late, with live music, additional animal keeper chats and extra food carts. Have a family picnic and dance on the amphitheater lawn. “Plus,” Swan adds, “a lot of animals are more active at dusk, so it’s pretty special!”

Visit oregonzoo.org and explorewashingtonpark.org to learn more.

Pickathon Experiential Music Festival

The Pickathon Experiential Music Festival takes place Aug. 1-4. PHOTO BY TODD STERN

If a near zero-waste, family-friendly music festival on a woodland farm (Pendarvis Farm in Happy Valley) with a lineup of your current future favorite artists sounds like a dream come true, the Pickathon Experiential Music Festival is for you. Every August (this year Aug. 1-4), hundreds gather for an intimate music and community experience.

Andy Furgeson, aka Red Yarn, lead producer of the Pickathon family zone, says Pickathon is carefully curated for kids and adults. “The Coyote Neighborhood hosts family-friendly acts and also youth bands,” Furgeson says. “We carved out hangout spaces, like the Family Feeding Nest, which is a woodsy shaded nursing area. There’s drop-in classes from Cedarwood Waldorf School and Trackers Earth and arts and crafts. For older kids, we have a special spot for them to busk and sell their drawings and friendship bracelets.” 

Kids with discerning taste will find Grammy-winning jazz artist Lucy Kalantari and interactive folk singer Little Miss Anne on the Coyote Neighborhood stage this year. Furgeson advises checking on the website for logistics. And, he says, “there are options for tent camping, RV and camper vans. And being so close to town, it’s easy to stay anywhere and take the shuttle. Come prepared for an adventure and for some magic.”

For a music festival catering to everyone, with stages tucked into barns and corners of the woods, it’s a weekend destined to become a family legend. pickathon.com.

Shelley Gaske is an Oregon-based adoptee and writer examining the stigmas and lived experiences of mental health, pop culture and the spectrum of connection.

How to Keep Your Family Healthy on Vacation 

Published

By Elena Epstein

Colleen Kraft, M.D., pediatrician at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
PHOTO COURTESY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL LOS ANGELES 

Family vacations are one of the best ways to bond and make lifelong memories. But we all know that the change in schedule and adjusting to sleeping and eating in new places can be challenging, especially for kids. We reached out to Colleen Kraft, M.D., a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, for some tips on how to incorporate wellness into your next adventure.

How important is staying hydrated when traveling, whether by car or plane?

It’s important to stay hydrated. Here’s a good chart on how much water [per day] a child should have by age:

Age in yearsNumber of 8-ounce cups
11
22
33
44
55
66
77
88
9 and older8
Eight 8-ounce cups = 2 liters

How do you ensure good hydration for both kids and parents?

When we are on vacation, we often don’t know that we are thirsty, but we see some of the following signs. This is especially true for active children and parents, as well as during warmer weather. These signs include:

  • Dry lips
  • Sticky mouth
  • Infrequent urination or dark-colored urine
  • Sleepy and irritable
  • Flushed skin
  • Lightheadedness
  • Cramps
  • Thirst
  • Headache
  • Rapid pulse
  • Feeling excessively hot or cold

Eating well can become challenging while traveling. What are some of your tips?

Keeping healthy snacks available can ensure that kids and parents have good options in between restaurants and other places to eat. If you are staying in a location with a kitchen, you can shop and make your own snack bags before you head out for the day. If you don’t have a kitchen, there are some good packaged options, including:

  • Fresh fruit slices
  • Dried fruit — raisins, cranberries, bananas, cherries, apricots
  • Baby carrots
  • Popcorn (for children over 4 years of age)
  • Peanuts, almonds, cashews
  • Pretzels
  • Veggie Straws
  • Snap peas

Stick to snacks that are primarily made with whole-food ingredients (beans, nuts, seeds, fruits, veggies, whole grains).

How about staying “regular,” which is a problem for many while traveling?

A combination of enough water, high-fiber foods (like the snacks above) and lots of physical activity will ensure that you and your kids will remain “regular” during your travel. Make sure you know where the bathrooms are located. For some kids, they will prefer to do this in the same location — like a hotel room or condo bathroom — so make sure you have some “down time” in the afternoon or evening for this to happen.

What are some activities to incorporate into our travel plans so we don’t return from our trip completely frazzled?

A balance of activity and rest really helps make a vacation fun and “doable”. Keep some of your usual family routines while away. Things like a bath, brushing teeth and a book at night are comforting for children and help make the daytime activities that much more enjoyable.

What do you recommend for getting a good night’s sleep in a new environment?

Vacation often includes later bedtimes than usual, but try not to make this any later than one hour past your child’s usual bedtime. Incorporate your usual bedtime routines while you are away to ensure that your child sleeps well.

What are some things to avoid while traveling to ensure a calmer, more enjoyable experience?

Vacations are a time when we all try to do too much — too many rides or activities or places to visit, too much junk food or treats. Keep a plan for a morning and an afternoon activity. Give yourself and your kids some down time. Make sure you include some of your family routines throughout your day and evening. Don’t worry if you don’t see or do everything — there will always be times to return. The important part is to celebrate your children and family while you visit a new or fun destination or relatives. The time and attention you spend with your children will create lasting memories. 

Napa Valley: Best Savored Slowly and with Family

Published

By Elena Epstein

The Grand Reserve. PHOTO COURTESY MERITAGE RESORT AND SPA

One of my fondest experiences while growing up in Iran was watching my grandmother and aunts sitting around the kitchen table mixing basmati rice, raisins, barberries, dates, herbs and meat and then spending hours stuffing and rolling them into grape leaves while they chit-chatted about life. These layered flavors of my Persian family’s sweet-and-sour dolmeh were savored — slowly — and always with the people you loved.

The Epsteins. PHOTO COURTESY ELENA EPSTEIN

After immigrating to Los Angeles and settling into the Mid-City neighborhood in the 1980s, my mom started growing grapes in our backyard. Despite the small size of her mini vineyard, there was beauty and a trace of home in each vine. Driving around Napa Valley on a recent family trip brought back a lot of these old memories.

There is something enchanting about grapevines, whether in a perfectly manicured vineyard spanning acres of rolling hills or along a wooden fence on the side of the yard of a family yearning to hold onto its traditions. Maybe it’s because these vines have a story to tell, too.

During my family’s Napa visit, I overheard a sommelier explain how the best wines typically are made from grapes that flourish in the toughest conditions. I’ve always been drawn to narratives of resiliency, of finding beauty in the storm. So being in Napa Valley in January, when all the vines are resting for the winter months, was magical for me. There are no leaves or clusters of grapes, but there is so much elegance and strength in these woody vines.

Our stay

Hotel balcony. PHOTO COURTESY MERITAGE RESORT AND SPA

The Grand Reserve at the Meritage was our vineyard home for a few days as we explored this beautiful region that’s just a short flight from L.A. All guests are welcomed with a complimentary glass of bubbly upon arrival, and my family and I were especially enthralled by the “resident” cats that have found a home under the shady trees just outside of the resort’s entrance. We loved driving by just to see them lounging on a luggage rack or simply relaxing along the walkway.

The Meritage Resort and Spa and the Grand Reserve at the Meritage are sister properties, offering expansive walking trails through the hillside vineyard, restaurants, wine-tasting rooms, an adorable village grocery store, a full-service spa, pools, fitness center and classes, plus seasonal activities onsite. A morning walk through the hillside vineyard surrounding the resort is a great way to start the day. Make sure to stop at the vegetable garden and the adorable chicken coop, Sunny Side Up Ranch, and hike up to the iconic The Grape Crusher statue.

“The Grape Crusher.” PHOTO BY ELENA EPSTEIN

During our stay, we experienced all the festivities of Merry Meritage, complete with a giant Christmas tree donned in twinkling lights, a holiday village, outdoor ice skating in the middle of the resort and fire pits with our very own s’mores kit. The luxurious suites are perfect for families, offering a full kitchen, large living room and balcony, allowing ample space to read, play board games or watch movies together.

The resort boasts several dining options. The Village Bistro is French inspired with a wine country twist. Parisian gnocchi with delicata squash and baby turnips, pan-seared organic salmon with stewed lentils and roasted cauliflower are just a few items on the menu. Crush Lounge is a six-lane bowling alley on the property that also serves up spiked milkshakes, nachos, wings, fish tacos, salads and other bites to share. Olive & Hay offers a farm-to-table Italian-inspired seasonal menu that included fall specials such as a cranberry burrata and panzanella salad with heirloom apples, focaccia croutons, farm-picked greens, Humboldt fog walnuts and apple-cider vinaigrette.

You can also grab a quick bite, coffee or create a picnic basket from Fivetown Grocery on the resort property. There is house-made pasta, sandwiches and salads and freshly baked bread.

Relaxing at Spa Terra

PHOTO COURTESY MERITAGE RESORT AND SPA

The resort is home to one of the most unique spas I have experienced. Spa Terra is built inside the 22,000-square-foot underground Estate Cave. The sprawling nine acres of hillside vineyards sit right above the spa.

Upon arrival, my daughters and I were greeted with a glass of sparkling wine and a tour of the facilities. Offerings include hot stone and aroma wellness massages and facials featuring organic herbs and botanicals. After our relaxation massages, we headed to the sauna and whirlpool bath and then read in a cozy stone room. It was the perfect respite from work and school.

The towns and the food

Napa Valley is a celebration of nature’s bounty and splendor. A feast for all your senses with spectacular vistas, charming towns, farm-to-table food and, of course, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Fivetown Grocery. PHOTOS BY ELENA EPSTEIN

What’s great about staying at the Meritage is that you’re just 10 minutes from downtown Napa Valley, and from there you can explore the other nearby towns of Yountville, St. Helena and Calistoga.

On our first night, we headed to Grace’s Table in downtown Napa for dinner. The recognized Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant serves comfort food from around the globe. On a cold, rainy night, the Model Bakery baguettes with sweet butter were a warm and comforting starter to our meal. You can also visit Model Bakery, which has three locations in Napa. We picked up a few of the bakery’s famous English muffins one afternoon for a cozy snack.

We continued our lovefest with artisan breads and pastries as we headed to Yountville, about 20 minutes from the resort, for breakfast at Bouchon Bakery. This charming spot was opened by renowned Chef Thomas Keller in 2003, next door to his Bouchon Bistro and just down the road from his famous, three Michelin Stars French Laundry.

Dinner at Olive & Hay.

After our coffee, almond and chocolate croissants, we wandered around the quaint town, stopping at Kollar Chocolates to sample some uniquely created confections designed like miniature art pieces. Just before heading back, we made the very wise decision to pick up a baguette from Bouchon for the road. No regrets.

We spent the next afternoon exploring more of downtown Napa — its cute boutiques, wine-tasting rooms, restaurants, galleries and coffee shops. We continued our chocolate tasting at Annette’s Chocolates on First Street, browsed Copperfield’s Bookstore (a local favorite for 40 years), stopped in Wine Girl simply to admire the pink holiday décor and then worked our way to Oxbow Public Market for lunch. This is a great spot to sample local flavors. The 40,000-square foot marketplace has lots of outdoor seating, including a deck along the Napa River. We opted for Gott’s Roadside, recognized as a James Beard America’s Classic. The chicken schnitzel with turmeric-spiced mayo and fries hit the spot before we headed to our afternoon of wine tasting.

Later that evening, we enjoyed a great dinner at Mustards Grill in St. Helena, where two acres of the chef’s garden in the back provide seasonal inspiration for this popular spot. Another wonderful oasis where you can stroll through vegetable and fruit gardens is the Culinary Institute of America at Copia, located next to the Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa. Inside, you can visit the Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum, a unique space devoted to the history of culinary tools and appliances. You can grab sandwiches and salads from the Lunch Box at Copia or dine under the olive trees at The Grove at Copia.

The vineyards

Wine tasting at Domaine Carneros.

Napa is home to more than 400 vineyards, with many family-friendly options, as well as adult-only choices. You can bike through vineyards, take a bus or train tour or explore on your own. Most places do require reservations, so I recommend figuring out how many and which wineries you want to visit ahead of time. We chose Domaine Carneros and Castello di Amorosa. In addition to tasting great wines, we wanted grand vistas and European castle vibes.

Domaine Carneros is known for its sparkling and estate Pinot Noir, and guests can sample these varieties in the chateau overlooking 138 acres of rolling hills. The four of us sat in the salon at our own table, sipping each of our wines in front of a cozy fireplace and magnificent views. Even though the weather was too chilly to sit on the terrace, we did go out a few times to enjoy the views and the sunset.

Castello di Amorosa is a 14th century style Tuscan castle winery. The medieval architecture was designed to be an authentic replica of a bygone era with ancient bricks shipped from Europe, hand-painted Italian frescoes, 500-year-old Umbrian fireplace, Roman cross-vaulted brick ceilings and a magnificent courtyard with Tuscan-style breezeways and loggias.

The seasons and transportation

While fall is harvesting season and the busiest time to visit, there is beauty here throughout the year. During our winter visit, the vines were dormant — resting for the season ahead when spring brings buds and green leaves and the summer heat sweetens the clusters of grapes. We loved the cooler weather and the cozy holiday decorations and lights.

There are several options to reach Napa from L.A. We opted to fly into Oakland, a 50-minute flight from LAX, rented a car and drove one hour to the Meritage Resort and Spa. You can also fly into San Francisco or Sacramento. The drive from San Francisco to Napa is about two hours and about one hour from Sacramento. Napa is about a seven-hour drive from the L.A. area. Whichever route you choose, I recommend having a car while visiting this region. Each of the towns has its own unique charm with scenic roads connecting them.

The showstopper

Castello di Amorosa.

It’s all about nature’s beauty and bounty here. You’ll marvel at the spectacular landscape of vineyards surrounding you in every direction. You’ll enjoy artisan breads, perfectly grilled meats and seasonal vegetables and fruits.

Even if you don’t consider yourself a “foodie,” farm-to-table is at its best here, and your taste buds will rejoice with every bite. And whether you’re just starting to learn about different types of wines or you’re a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll discover the perfect bottle here with its own story to tell.

A few highlights of our magical visit to Napa Valley and the Grand Reserve at The Meritage.

Elena Epstein is Creative Director of L.A. Parent.

Mother Daughter Tea at The Westgate Hotel San Diego

Published

By Nina Harada

Naomi gets a hug from Princess Tiana at The Westgate Hotel’s Enchanted Tea. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

My mom didn’t bake cookies, take me prom dress shopping or those other mother-daughter activities, but she did bring me along for one of her favorite rituals: high tea. I have fond memories of getting dressed up for hot tea, scones with cream and savory finger sandwiches in the beautiful surroundings of whatever hotel my mom selected that afternoon. I was delighted when I got to carry on this little tradition with my 4 ½ year old daughter Naomi during a recent trip to The Westgate Hotel in San Diego.  

Naomi isn’t a unicorn and rainbows type of girl, but she does appreciate a nice restaurant experience. When I told her we were going to have an Enchanted Tea together, The Westgate Hotel’s princess tea experience, meeting princess Tiana and Rapunzel was just icing on the cake. She couldn’t wait to have hot chocolate, puff pastries, macarons and mini sandwiches. And I couldn’t wait to share this experience with just the two of us.

We sat at a sweet little table for two among other guests, most of them dressed up as their favorite princess. Our service kicked off with sparkling wine for me and sparkling apple cider for Naomi, followed by hot chocolate, organic Earl Grey tea and towers of tea sandwiches like strawberry cream cheese and cotto prosciutto, pastries and scones. Eventually, the princesses arrived, gathering the children for a couple of songs and individual photos. After we said goodbye to Tiana and Rapunzel, Naomi got a keepsake princess postcard and little toy frog to remember our special mother-daughter afternoon.

This holiday season The Westgate Hotel is offering three festive tea services. The Winter Wonderland Tea, which runs through Jan. 1, offers beverages, sweet and savory treats and tea sandwiches with a winter twist accompanied by a live harpist. Guests also receive a special ornament. On select dates through Dec. 23, families can enjoy Santa’s Story Time Tea, featuring a story time with Santa Claus, live holiday music and traditional tea service. Children can take photos with Mr. Claus and will receive a keepsake teddy bear. And for the first time ever, The Westgate Hotel hosts a Grinch’s Tea on Dec. 24. The Christmas Eve afternoon tea experience features photo ops with Grinch and Cindy Lou Who, entertainment, a take home gift and more.

The Westgate Hotel in San Diego is offering three festive tea services this holiday season. PHOTO COURTESY THE WESTGATE HOTEL

If you can’t make it for the holidays, The Westgate offers regular afternoon tea service Thursdays through Sundays for mother-daughter tea time or a relaxing date without the kids.

Nina Harada is a mom, artist and Digital Editor of L.A. Parent.

We Are the Wild Things

Published

By Amanda Fletcher

Ben gets up close and personal with a falcon through the organization Hawk on Hand. PHOTO COURTESY HAWK ON HAND

We are standing in a sea of green and yellow, running our hands over sulphur-flower buckwheat, mule’s ears and fragrant sagebrush leaves. Thick clouds roam the sky above us, cool wind ruffles our hair and the mineral smell of rain invades our nostrils.

We gaze, awestruck, at a snowy Grand Teton, which, at 13,775 feet, is the highest point in the almost 40 miles of the Teton Range, a spectacular block of mountains that seems to explode straight up and out of the valley floor.

“Whoa,” my 14-year-old godson, Ben, says. “So cool.”

It’s an early Saturday morning in June, and we’re spending the weekend at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Last night, with the balcony doors flung open, we listened to the wind whisper to trees and the chorus frogs sing as the fire crackled and the television stayed, purposefully, off.

This morning, we are exploring Grand Teton National Park on a private tour with Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris. We started at sunrise with Seth, our guide, pointing out chokecherry blossoms and explaining huckleberries to Ben, all while monitoring his company’s Slack channel to make sure we don’t miss any big animal sightings, say, a black bear or grizzly. We’ve been on the road for less than an hour, and Ben has already spotted a mule deer through the trees, female elk grazing with their young and a juvenile moose along the Snake River.

“Kid’s got great eyes,” Seth says.

A grizzly family, a grazing pronghorn and a bison: wildlife is bountiful in Jackson Hole. PHOTO BY NPS/JANE GAMBLE
PHOTO COURTESY JACKSON HOLD WILDLIFE SAFARIS
PHOTO BY NPS/JANE GAMBLE

“Better than 20/20,” Ben shouts from the backseat, around a mouthful of yogurt parfait.

We are about to climb back into the SUV when Ben points and asks, “What’s that?” I turn in the direction of his extended finger, lifting the binoculars Seth hands me. At first, all I see is waving grass. Then, a tuft of thirsty shrub becomes a yellow flank, and those naked tree branches morph into horns. My eyes follow them down to wide, liquid eyes on either side of a flat black nose.

There is this one creature, lying still. Then another. And another. The meadow is full of resting animals. “Pronghorns,” says Seth. “The fastest land animal in North America. Probably to outrun the cheetahs, when there were some here.” Related to the antelope, pronghorns are hoofed animals or ungulates, and neither Ben nor I have ever heard of them. Or the fact that there were once cheetahs here.

“Whoa,” we say, together this time.

According to Dacher Keltner, a professor of psychology, director of the Berkeley Social Interaction Lab and author of “Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life,” that “whoa” is a universal sound of awe. A vocalization humans make when we notice how vast and mysterious the world is. Keltner’s research reveals that experiencing awe is critical to our health and well-being. In “Awe,” he writes, “It is awe that activates our inclination to share and create strong networks, to take actions that are good for the natural and social world around us.”

A desire to make a conscious connection with nature and my godson is what brought us to Jackson Hole. Having context for natural wonder has carried me through some of my darkest times. And multiple sources — from the American Psychological Association to the Greater Good Science Center, the Yale School of the Environment and beyond — support the healing power of nature across cultures and communities. There is even a name for it: ecopsychology.

The writer and her godson climb one of the Via Ferrata’s ladders.

With this in mind, I want us to make awesome, life-affirming memories together. The kind that I made with my grandmother in Canada, who took me on epic hikes along the Niagara Escarpment, the two of us slurping from natural springs and shouting “hawk!” whenever we spotted one. And there are few hikes more epic than the Iron Way, or Via Ferrata. Originally use by Italian soldiers to traverse mountain passes in the Dolomites, these climbing routes have since made their way to the U.S. The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Via Ferrata has 17 routes of varying difficulties, incorporating steel rungs, suspension bridges and ladders so that climbers can clip their harnesses onto a secure side cable for a safe — yet stunning — alpine adventure. Ben can’t wait to try it.

So even though it’s a cold and wet morning, we’re excited as we enter the Bridger Activity Center to gear up. Our guide takes us through the safety measures and the sample climb before asking us what we’re up for. I look at Ben. He looks at me. “Whatever you think we can manage,” I say. Ben nods. Soon, he is clinging to the side of a rock face at 9,000 feet, his back leg quaking.

When I ask him if he wants to stop, he says no. “I’m terrified, but I love it.”

“Me, too,” I say, because I feel vitally connected to him, this moment and this place, intensely present and attuned to all of my senses. And I can tell he feels this way, too.

Mule’s ears brighten the gloomiest of days.

When it comes to awe, Keltner has identified eight wonders of life where we can find it: moral beauty, collective effervescence, nature, music, visual design, spirituality and religion, life and death and epiphany. In contemplating this list, I realize how many times I have been awestruck this weekend. I think about the crowd of strangers tiptoeing through the brush to catch a glimpse of world-famous Grizzly 399 and her cub. How a massive old bison turns his head to stare at me, and I am instantly transported through thousands of years of people in this place. Rounding out the awe is a huge gust of wind that blows up around us during our seven-minute sit as we listen to Beautiful Chorus sing “I am Connected.”

When I ask Ben to write his trip highlights in his journal, he writes: “Seeing the group of bison, going up the mountain to meditate and eat waffles and climbing the mountain.” I realize that not only do we need to have access to these kinds of experiences, but that we need to model these behaviors and enjoy them together, encouraging children of all ages to join us.

Where attention goes, attention grows.

So how can we grow our capacity for wonder and our reverence for the natural world, beyond luxury trips and adventure travel?

Read on for some of my favorite ideas.

Plant a seed

Invite nature into your everyday. A few examples:

• Take a cutting from your friend’s pothos plant.

• Buy an orchid from Trader Joe’s or a tiny cactus from the 99 Cents Only Store.

• Try an indoor herb garden or a balcony box.

• Start a vegetable garden.

• Use your plot as a tool to connect the generations. Teach your kids how to caretake, harvest and consume what you grow. Cook the bounty together.

“My mother and her seven siblings were raised by her single mother, a widow, on a small plot in rural Alabama in the 1940s,” says award-winning author, attorney, therapist and mother of two Natashia Deón, “and if you’d ask my momma, she’d say, ‘We never knew we were poor because we always had everything we needed,’ but in California, no matter how good things were, she’d always notice the lack of collard green bushes in her garden. So, when she turned 80 years old, I ordered two packets of Alabama collard green seeds online, and we have been connecting over small bushes of collards and her larger-than-life childhood ever since.”

Volunteering at a community garden is another way to cultivate a reciprocal relationship with the land and each other, says poet, educator and activist Teresa Mei Chuc, who co-founded The Regenerative Collective, an organization dedicated to hyper-local native plant projects. According to Chuc, many of the gardens in the Los Angeles area are led by community elders. Check out Metitlan Community Garden, Mott Street or Mudd Town Farms.

Can I eat that?

It can be an adventure teaching city kids how to trust the land. To get started, learn how to forage. Find an app, take a class, get on Meetup or Eventbrite. Map your neighborhood on FallingFruit.org, print out your findings, grab a wagon and make a game of it.

What kid doesn’t want to know how to survive the zombie apocalypse?

Listen to the leaves

Did you know that plants can talk? Make music even? “I’ve always had a connection to nature, but it wasn’t until I started making music with PlantWave — a device that converts the electrical signals of plants into sounds — that I began to experience a really profound shift in consciousness,” says musician Greg Camphire.

“I’m learning that plants are our intelligent, perceptive and sensitive relatives who are living through the climate crisis with us and are essential to our mutual survival,” Camphire says. “In the struggle for environmental justice, their voices must be heard.”

Check out his multimedia musical project, Spooky Action Labs, or visit PlantWave.com for your own device.

Experiment with time

Stay up late and go to bed early sometimes. Sleep outside. Wake up ahead of the light. Make a big deal out of sunrises, the stars and meteor showers. Map the sky, search The Old Farmer’s Almanac, celebrate the cycles of the moon. Science is cool, but so is ceremony. See how you can combine the two.

Step into the blue

“You are not a drop in the ocean,” the poet Rumi wrote. “You are the entire ocean in a drop.”

So much research supports spending time in parks, forests and gardens, but being in blue space — around water — has its own unique benefits, including wave sounds, light reflections, leisure activities and a vital connection to our physical makeup and survival. So make swimming a part of your regular activities. Spend some time at the beach. Play in the waves and search the horizon for whales.

Visit the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium or take a surf lesson. Pick a lake and take a polar plunge. Go hiking in search of hot springs and waterfalls. Touch the water when you can. Think about all of the people, places and things you are connected to, just by submerging some of yourself in the blue.

Get your Groupon

Have you ever seen hundreds of dolphins jumping through the waves? Well, I have, and it was because I went on a kayaking trip through the Channel Islands on a Groupon deal. And I don’t just mean discounts. Gather your people and do things together or get out there and find some new folks to do things with. Check out Meetup and Eventbrite. You can also split the cost of something special with the ones you love, such as a falconry experience with Hawk on Hand or whale watching with Newport Coastal Adventure.

Get wild

“Wild creatures and nature are major sources of inspiration,” says writer and founder of Makara Center for the Arts Marytza K. Rubio. “We have so many fruit trees and bright flowers in our neighborhood that attract these gorgeous beetles and bees…and when you are quiet and patient, you can see hummingbirds, parrots, pigeons and hawks all in one afternoon.”

Open the doors to nature and light the fire for a great night’s sleep.

Go looking for peacocks in the streets of San Pedro and keep your eyes peeled for the hawks that haunt the 710 Freeway. Open your windows and listen for the chittering of raccoons, search for the shine of opossum eyes in the night. Instead of squealing in terror or shouting with annoyance, let the kids see how excited it makes you to spot them. Get wild about it. Learn about all of the things we have in common with creatures big and small.

Embrace your most natural core and this truth: We are the wild things.

Amanda Fletcher is a freelance writer, trainer and breathwork practitioner with a degree in kinesiology.

Town and Country Resort in San Diego: First Vacation as a Family of Four

Published

By Nina Harada

Town and Country Resort in San Diego features a sprawling pool complex. PHOTO BY JUSTIN KRIEL/ COURTESY TOWN AND COUNTRY RESORT

I walk behind my eldest daughter Naomi on our way to daycare for the very last time, my five-month-old baby strapped to my chest. She does not hold my hand or wait for me to catch up. Her nose is in a book, awkwardly turning the pages while trying to avoid the overgrown native plants in our neighbor’s front yard, which she does because we’ve walked this same path for the last two years. Tomorrow she will start “big school” and clearly, she is ready, but I am not. In anticipation for this rite of passage I told my husband I wanted a family trip before the back-to-school madness begins. After all, we’ve never gone anywhere just the four of us yet. So, the final weekend of summer break we packed our swimsuits, snacks and other essentials and headed south.

The 671 guest rooms at Town and Country Resort feature plush beds, plenty of space and artwork by local artist Andy Davis. PHOTO BY JUSTIN KRIEL/ COURTESY TOWN AND COUNTRY RESORT

San Diego has become one of our happy places, as I’m sure it is for many, with its year-round perfect weather, local breweries, sandy beaches, and my favorite, palm trees. Despite arriving at Town and Country Resort in Mission Valley very late on a Friday night, I still felt an instant sense of calm as we drove past the row of palm trees lining the entrance. The mid-century lobby was all vibes with couples at the Monkey Bar sipping cocktails, live music and tweens and teens soaking up their final days of freedom. As much as I’d love to disregard the girls’ bedtimes in the name of summer vacation, to sip wine around the fire pits outside the Monkey Bar and put our feet up, we have not reached that level of parenting yet. But that’s okay. We take the elevator up to our suite and that ride alone had Naomi excited. If that’s all it takes, then she’s in for a treat.

Photo-ops and fun in the sun

The flamingo chair makes a perfect phot-op. PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

Seeing the 23-acre property in the daylight from our balcony we got our bearings. “Pink chair!” Naomi exclaimed pointing to the Instagram ready giant flamingo shaped chair against a colorful mural backdrop. “Twisty slide!” she said pointing in the other direction at the four-story 150-foot twister waterslide. In between, the property’s zero entry main pool glistened, rows of lounge chairs neatly surrounding the 10,000 square foot pool complex. As most parents of little ones know, just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you get to sleep in. Fortunately, the in-room coffee maker held me over until everyone was dressed to stroll over to MRKT, the hotel’s gourmet grab-n-go market featuring very San Diego fare like acai bowls, breakfast burritos and fish tacos.

After breakfast we had to have our own little photo shoot by the chair. As my husband was juggling our baby and the iPhone to snap a picture, a woman and her young son volunteered to take the ever-elusive photo of all of us. “They’re only this little once,” she said insisting on taking multiple pictures to get the right shot. “He was our do-over.” She ruffled her son’s hair who was being a good sport about this morning interruption. “We’ve got two in college and then—surprise! It was the best surprise.” She squeezes her son. “Enjoy this time.” I squeeze my baby girls a little harder. I know she’s right, how fleeting this moment can be despite the challenges that come with parenting little ones. After all, this was our last weekend before entering the world of packed lunches, permission slips and picture day. I try not to think of all that at lunch, a “mommy and Naomi date” as she likes to call it. I do my best to hold back tears as I stare at her across the table, sipping on sparkling apple cider out of a champagne flute. “Stop looking at me!!” she grumbles and breaks me out of my spell.

Pool time

Take a slide down the 150-foot twister. PHOTO BY JUSTIN KRIEL/ COURTESY TOWN AND COUNTRY RESORT

That afternoon, which happened to be Steel Drum Saturday, we snagged some poolside chairs in the shade, thanks to a local couple with young kids and a baby enjoying the resort for the day. The property was full of parents like them who “get it,” which is part of the reason we could relax a little unlike past vacations. I sat on the edge of the kiddie pool as I kept an eye on Naomi who was playing in the water with a little girl. The girl’s mom had three other children, she explained to me, ages 7, 10 and 12. “She was my surprise baby,” she said pointing to her 3-year-old. “I had an IUD that was supposed to last 10 years. But it lasted four. She was meant to be!”

Dinner and a movie

After an early evening stroll through San Diego River Park, directly behind our building, we sat down for dinner at Lapper Kitchen + Tap, the resort’s fast-casual restaurant featuring a full bar and kids menu. As dinner was winding down, Naomi asked if she could play on the lawn across from the Lapper. Shocked that she didn’t ask one of us to go with her, I said, “Of course.” We could easily see her from our table where we were still sipping our beers. She takes a moment to observe from the sidelines the older kids rolling down the small grassy hill. When she felt ready, she joined in on the fun. My eyes welled again; she is ready.

Enjoy a meal around the fire pit at The Lapper. PHOTO BY JUSTIN KRIEL/ COURTESY TOWN AND COUTRY RESORT

The sky was turning that gorgeous dusty pink as we walked back to our room. By the pool, a giant inflatable screen was getting ready to show the 2006 animated film “Happy Feet,” one of the many family-friendly activities at the hotel. But we were tired from a full day and even Naomi agreed it was time to go to sleep. The next day, after the daunting task of packing up a car with kids, I asked Naomi how she felt about the trip. I expected her to talk about the pink chair or the pool, or even the hotel elevator. To my surprise she answered, “Squeezed, loved, hugs.”

Our first family vacation as a family of four wasn’t all pink sunsets and relaxing meals, not with a baby and a four-year-old, but our time at Town and Country Resort was certainly full of love, squeezes and hugs.

The Count’s Splash Castle Reopens at Sesame Place San Diego

Published

By Michael Lowe

Count’s Splash Castle. PHOTO COURTESY SESAME PLACE SAN DIEGO


With 111 play elements, four water slides, and three tipping buckets dispensing a combined 1,300 gallons of water, the newest water-play attraction at Sesame Place San Diego is fit for, well, a Count.

The newly renovated Count’s Splash Castle officially reopened on June 30, with the notoriously numeric muppet making a cameo to the cheers of the crowd. As families gathered for the grand opening ceremony, the multi-color, multi-level (yet-to-be-played-upon) splash zone loomed behind the stage, its myriad water features twisting and turning and tantalizing those patiently waiting on the edges.

Within moments of the ribbon cutting, the structure’s unsullied status was no more, as kids rushed the several entrances, climbing aboard and engaging with interactive features, all while squealing with glee. Soakers, flow pipes, hose jets, spray jets, water shooters, water curtains, tipping troughs, and spinning and sliding buckets — these are the types of things you’ll find here, things one might dream up for a fantastical episode of Sesame Street.

With so many features packed onto one structure, the Count’s Castle can be a bit chaotic — but it’s an aquatic madness to love on a sunny summer day at Sesame Place.

For our daughter (3.5), who tends to favor order to chaos, venturing into the heart of the medieval-style park was not on the agenda.

The writer (left) and his family explore Count’s Splash Castle. PHOTO COURTESY
MICHAEL LOWE

But that’s not to say she didn’t enjoy it. In fact, quite the opposite.

She was more than happy wading in the ankle deep water that extends far past the perimeter of the castle itself, watching the marine madness unfold from a distance. (She especially enjoyed watching multiple buckets dump their contents on squealing park-goers — both voluntarily and unsuspecting.)

From gentle sprays and bubbling fountains to thrilling water slides and tipping buckets, there’s something to captivate every water-loving adventurer. Little ones like my daughter can explore the shallow pools and discover water streams that trickle down from various points in the castle, or interact with different water features designed to stimulate the senses and encourage imaginative play. Those seeking bigger thrills can head to spray guns and waterslides.

A few of my personal favorites:

PHOTO COURTESY SESAME PLACE SAN DIEGO
  • A second-story splash pad with water guns mounted mere feet apart to spray friends and foes at humorously close proximity. Enter at your own risk of being caught in the crossfire.
  • Troughs of water strategically positioned above walkways that  surreptitiously fill up and then dump on unsuspecting passersby. No one is safe. Ever.
  • A variety of waterslides spread throughout the Castle with varying grades and lengths appropriate for all ages. These were closed during our trip, but scheduled to open soon.
  • The buckets, of course, that dramatically splash gallons upon gallons of water once full, giving the park an ever present sense of pent up kinetic energy. It’s great just to be the spectator — who doesn’t love watching a torrent of water descend upon someone else?

The castle’s layout is designed with both active play and areas for parents to unwind, with seating areas to take a rest while keeping a watchful eye on children.

Though I wouldn’t quite consider a trip to Count’s Splash Castle relaxing, there’s something comforting about knowing your kids are sure to find something to entertain them among the 111 play features. Or, if they’re like my daughter, enjoying the frenzy from the calm, cool shallows.

NAPPA’s Summer Fun Guide is Here

Published

School’s out, as is the sun, and we hope you’re filling these warmer weeks and weekends with all kinds of kid-friendly fun. To that end, NAPPA has published its annual Summer Fun Guide, and it’s brimming with inspiration for parents, from items that will turn your backyard into a water park to toys for imaginative and creative play.

Check out terrific picks from NAPPA in the digital issue!

Love to Cruise for Good

Published

Local staffing agency Recruiting for Good helps companies find talented professionals, generates proceeds to fund The Sweetest Gigs (work program for kids) and rewards referrals to companies hiring professional staff with cruise savings.

Love to save $2,500 or more on your next cruise?

Participate in Recruiting for Good’s referral program. Simply introduce Recruiting for Good to a company executive (CEO, CFO or VP HR) you personally know. When Recruiting for Good gets retained for a search, we help the company find a talented professional.

Recruiting for Good then earns a finder’s fee to fund Sweet Kid Programs and rewards a $2,500 Cruise (via a travel gift card). If Recruiting for Good gets retained again by company, the family that made the intro will earn a $500 cruise gift card for every future hire made.  

“One more sweet benefit; families that successfully participate in our referral program; help their kids land gigs to earn travel!”  

Carlos, Sweet Founder
Recruiting for Good & The Sweetest Gigs


Recruiting for Good created The Sweetest Gigs to prepare kids for life by creating a work program (creative gigs) that teaches sweet skills, success habits and positive values. Kids on The Sweetest Gigs quickly learn there are no free lunches in life. Anything worthwhile takes time and effort to earn. Kids raise their self-confidence and appreciate everything more — including themselves.

Kids who successfully complete gigs have positive work experiences that prepare them for tomorrow.

Love to Cruise for Good, join the club at www.LovetoCruiseforGood.com

The Aquarium of the Pacific Celebrates 25 Years

Published

As of this month, beloved Long Beach institution Aquarium of the Pacific is celebrating its 25th anniversary, having welcomed guests to its fantastic galleries and exhibits since 1998. To mark the occasion, new programming will run through 2023, including a second-floor ocean photography exhibit and events for all ages, plus the brand-new Southern California Gallery, which is set to debut on July 1.

PHOTO COURTESY AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC

A visit to the aquarium is an incredible way to engage young children in ocean education and conservation. Guests see sea creatures up close, and may even touch some fauna in designated touch tanks. The aquarium is a vital community resource in this way — as parents, we understand that personal encounters and engagement with the ocean and its inhabitants increases the likelihood that we raise young people who will later advocate for the health welfare of the world’s oceans.

To gather more details about the anniversary and the aquarium as a whole, L.A. Parent chatted with Jennie Dean, vice president of education and conservation with Aquarium of the Pacific.

LAP: Tell us a bit about the So Cal Gallery — what can families expect to see here? 

Jennie Dean: The Southern California Gallery will feature over ten exhibits, and more than three dozen species. Highlighted animals will include the California two-spot octopus, leopard and horn sharks, California scorpionfish, a moray eel, California spiny lobsters, Catalina goby, and California’s state marine fish — the Garibaldi. 

PHOTO COURTESY AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC/ROBIN RIGGS

What does the 25th anniversary mean to Aquarium team? What goals are they looking to next?

JD: We are like a family — there are volunteers and employees who have been here all 25 years. And as a nonprofit, we could not do what we do without volunteers. We would also not be here without the support of Long Beach. We look forward to our ongoing collaborations with the city and surrounding communities, and we hope we can continue to grow our family in the next 25 years and connect people with nature. 

What are the aquarium’s most popular offerings for families? Or, what programs might get overlooked that you’d like families to remember? 

JD: Our touch labs are among the favorites of our visiting families. We have four locations where guests can gently touch live animals. At our Coastal Corner, guests can experience the different textures found in the rocky intertidal zone, including sea stars and sea urchins. At our moon jelly touch lab, guests can touch the bell (or large circular top) of this species. At Shark Lagoon, you can touch tropical sharks. Finally, at Ray Pool on the California Terrace, you can feel the silky skin of bat rays. 

The COVID-19 pandemic put our weekend family educational programs on hold, but we are pleased to bring them back starting in June. With “Big Fish, Little Fish,” parents experience the Aquarium with their children under the age of six by looking at animals and their adaptations. And with “Ocean Investigators,” kids 7 to 12 years old get a first glimpse into what it is like to be a marine biologist.  

The Aquarium actively works to improve and protect our oceans. Can families participate in these efforts?

JD: There are several ways for families to get involved with our work. One way is through our Los Cerritos Wetlands Habitat Restoration events, held on the first Saturday of the month; families can remove invasive plants and trash and plant native plants in their place. This provides habitat for animals to return to. Another way you can participate is through our education programs; families can volunteer as a unit and interact with our guests at our touch labs and other stations across the Aquarium. Participating children must be age nine or older.

https://www.aquariumofpacific.org/events/info/los_cerritos_wetlands_habitat_restoration

What is the best way for young activists to help our oceans? 

JD: The best way to help is to minimize your impact. This takes many forms: making sure your trash goes into the can, recycling, turning off the lights when a room is empty, and bringing your own refillable water bottle instead of buying a new, disposable one when you are out. 

Tickets begin at $26.95 and children under age 3 are free. 

Summer in Vail

Published

Elena Epstein

For those of us living in sunny Southern California, a trip to Vail, Colo., typically means snow-covered mountains and fresh powder for skiing. I have no doubt the winters are magical, but as my family recently discovered, this famous mountain resort is pretty spectacular in the summer, too.

PHOTO COURTESY GRAND HYATT VAIL

A friend’s wedding brought us to Denver in June. While in the Mile High City for the first time, we decided to take the two-hour drive to Vail, which is known for its ski and snowboard terrain. Once the snow melts, the warmer months here are all about hikes, bikes, good food and nature at its very best.

Casual luxury wrapped in nature

We stayed at the Grand Hyatt Vail, which helped us feel like we were a million miles away from work and responsibilities. The resort is a wonderful mixture of relaxed luxury set at the base of the gorgeous Vail Mountain and the banks of Gore Creek.

One of the most unique features of the Grand Hyatt Vail is that the creek runs right behind it, providing guests with the incredible sound of rushing water. While letting these sounds wash over us, we enjoyed making s’mores at the main fire pit, reading alongside the infinity-edge pool and soaking in the outdoor hot tubs surrounded by towering trees. My daughter and I also took a complimentary yoga class one morning at the fitness center, and we had lots of laughs playing family foosball in the game room.

Follow the trail to village life

PHOTO COURTESY ELENA EPSTEIN

A wide, paved path that runs between the creek and the hotel will take you to Vail’s two charming villages: Lionshead Village and Vail Village. It’s about a 20-minute walk to Lionshead Village and another 10 minutes to the center of Vail Mountain Village. The resort also offers a free shuttle to the two villages, but — if you’re able — we highly recommend the walk along the creek. It’s the best way to take in the natural beauty surrounding you.

Taking this walk every morning to get breakfast in the village became one of our most memorable activities of the day. The first morning back in L.A., my daughter texted me that she woke up missing our creek walk to start the day. I felt the same way.

At the base of the mountain in White River National Forest sits the gorgeous town of Vail, filled with quaint shops, restaurants, Bavarian-inspired architecture and natural beauty. As we drove up to Vail from Denver, we all commented that even the pine trees growing in the forest seemed like they were somehow perfectly manicured.

Top of the world

For an unforgettable hike and views, take the Eagle Bahn gondola from Lionsgate Village. You’ll enjoy a spectacular and comfortable ride to the top, and once you’re there, you’ll have a network of hiking trials to explore with unparalleled views. Vail Mountain boasts more than 40 miles of biking trails, including popular freestyle trails, and more than 20 miles of hiking trails for all abilities.

Hiking trails start from both the top of Gondola One and Eagle Bahn Gondola. You can download the Vail Summer Trail map to find the best hike for your family. Just remember to take plenty of water with you. You’re at 10,000 feet elevation, so take it easy and stay hydrated.

During the summer months, you’ll find plenty of fun family activities at the top of the mountain as well. The Epic Discovery is a popular summer activity for families, with the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, summer tubing, zip lines, climbing walls and more.

For the best value, purchase your lift ticket and dining voucher together. Food and beverage prices at the top of the mountain are expensive, so the voucher is definitely worth it. You can also pick up snacks and sandwiches from the village and enjoy them at the top of the mountain. For more information on lift tickets and summer activities, visit vail.com.

PHOTO COURTESY ELENA EPSTEIN

Drinks with a view

Head to Remedy Bar at the Four Seasons Resort for appetizers, an early dinner and drinks. The best spot is at one of the firepit tables in the patio overlooking the slopes. The extensive menu includes a raw bar, poke bowl action station, soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches. There are also local favorites such as elk and black-bean chili and fire-roasted tomato soup and grilled cheese.

Don’t miss the resort’s famous “haut chocolat” with house-made marshmallows, chocolate tuile and Chantilly crème. The Four Seasons is located just steps from Vail Village.

Flavors of the world

The two villages offer a wide variety of dining options — from burgers and pizzas to trendy hot spots.

We had a lovely farm-fresh creekside dinner at the family-owned Up the Creek. The truffle frites, roasted beet salad and roasted ruby red trout were my favorites. We loved the freshly baked German pretzel and cheese dip at Alpenrose Restaurant, a 40-plus year establishment in the area serving German-Austrian fare.

After our hike at the top of the mountain, we devoured the chile queso nachos and caprese flatbread at Tavern on the Square.

Our mornings were all about the scenic walk to the village area and trying a new spot for a delicious start to the day. One day we savored a European-style breakfast served with elegant china at Ludwig’s terrace overlooking the creek. Located inside the family-owned Sonnenalp Hotel, the signature buffet includes made-to-order eggs, hash browns, French toast, waffles, quiche, blintzes, cheese, yogurt and fruit — all served with old-world charm.

Another morning, we grabbed a table underneath a tree where we could still hear the creek, and enjoyed coffee, breakfast burritos and crepes at the Big Bear Bistro, a local favorite serving breakfast all day.

Getting to Vail

Summer season typically runs from May through October with special concerts, arts and cultural fairs.

Vail does have its own airport, Vail Eagle County Airport, with direct flights from L.A. We flew in and out of Denver International Airport, which offers good flight options from LAX and Burbank. The two-hour drive from Denver to Vail is easy and scenic.

Elena Epstein is Creative Director of L.A. Parent.

On the Cacao Trail in Hawaii

Published

By Wendy Paris

On Valentine’s Day, I headed to Honolulu — alone — in search of chocolate. It was my first-ever trip to the island state, and I wanted to see the headquarters of Mānoa Chocolate, a gourmet bean-to-bar chocolate maker owned by Dylan Butterbaugh, an Oahu local I met at the Northwest Chocolate Festival in Seattle in 2019 while doing research for a book I was co-writing called “Buy the Change You Want to See.”

Hawaii is the only state in the nation warm enough to grow cacao, the bean that is the base of my favorite food: chocolate. Hawaii’s cacao industry is still relatively new, and Butterbaugh, who started making chocolate as a student at the University of Hawaii in 2010, is leading the charge to develop it.

 

Waking up in Waikiki

I arrived in Waikiki on a rainy Tuesday afternoon and checked into White Sands Hotel, a quiet, mellow, three-story property wrapped around a small pool and located a block from Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki’s bustling shopping strip. Bamboo balustrades line the hotel’s balconies, and the property has hipster amenities, including swings for seats at the round poolside bar and Crosley record players in the suites.

From the balcony of my third-floor suite, I watched a dove nestling in a tree. In the living room, a pile of records sat on the desk, including one entitled “The Remarkable Voice of Hawaii’s Mahi Beamer in Authentic Island Songs.” The record jacket featured a picture of a man sporting a pink lei. Still tired from my flight and a little discombobulated by the rain (which did not exactly convey the message: “Welcome to paradise!”), I blew dust off the old record and set it spinning. Beamer’s tenor falsetto filled the room, instantly putting me in an island-vacation mood.

Despite its proximity to Kalakaua Avenue, my room was quiet at night. By morning, the rain had stopped, and I had two places to go: the Mānoa factory and store in Kailua, a small, vacation town on the windward side of the island, and 21 Degrees Estate, a cacao farm owned by a husband-and-wife team, located in the hills of Kahalulu, a verdant inland region. As we’ve written before, Honolulu is a real city — tall towers, traffic, vintage record shops. Waikiki can feel a lot like any other bustling, tropical tourist town. But as I saw on the 30-minute drive to the cacao farm, much of Oahu is filled with the rolling tropical jungle for which Hawaii is known. 

In search of Hawaiian-grown cacao

Less than an hour after leaving my hotel, I stood on a dirt lane looking across row upon row of young cacao trees. I recognized their wide, pointed oval leaves and the bright yellow, Nerf-football-sized cacao pods springing from the branches. The air was warm and balmy, filled with the farm’s goats bleating in the distance and the chattering of white-rumped shama birds.

Michael Rogers, who owns the farm with his wife, Maria Carl, cut off a pod with a knife and hacked it open. Inside, a clatch of cacao beans were nestled in a thick white goo. I removed a waxy bean and sucked on it, tasting the sweet and tart miel de cacao, or cacao fruit nectar, as the goo is called. Yes, I thought, I’m a single mom who has traveled alone to Hawaii on Valentine’s Day, but touring a cacao farm to see where it all begins will now be one of my favorite activities in the world.

Rogers and Carl bought their 10 acres about nine years ago, cleared the jungle, planted trees and nurtured them. They currently harvest about 12,000 pods a year from 70 trees, yielding 1,200 pounds of cacao beans. As the trees mature, that yield should double. Rogers says he and his wife had four conditions when they decided to retire from their careers in the military and run a family farm: they wanted to grow something fun, unique, interesting and not too labor-intensive. “We hit three out of four,” Rogers says.

Hawaii sits on the very northern edge of the cacao-growing zone. Because of the latitude and consequent weather variations, Hawaiian cacao beans vary in taste depending on the season. 21 Degrees has created three harvest flavor profiles: autumn, spring and summer. As Butterbaugh had told me back in Seattle, labor and land costs in Hawaii exceed those of famous cacao-producing regions such as Ecuador or Africa. Creating a chocolate industry in Hawaii, therefore, requires ingenuity. Mānoa produces chocolate bars for 21 Degrees Estate, which then sells them for $14 a bar, a cooperative strategy that so far is working. Rogers and Carl also offer tours and events as part of their business model.

Back up at the estate’s house-like central building, I stood on the long, covered porch as Rogers and Carl explained how the military experience is helping in this endeavor. “The military trains you to be a planner, to work hard and to not be a quitter,” Carl says. “You have a vision, work toward that vision and follow through. You definitely have to have your ‘vision goggles’ on.”

After sampling chocolate (I preferred the autumn harvest), I caught a ride with Carl to Kailua, where I grabbed a sandwich from the Kailua General Store and took a walk on the quiet beach. As thick clouds started rolling in, I hurried back to the store, arriving just as rain began pelting the ground. Within minutes, a stream of rainwater rushed past the curb. I tried and failed to get an Uber, then bought a coffee cacao nib swirl ice cream pop from local artisan pop maker Pop Culture and watched the rain come down. I looked at the wrapper. The cacao nibs came from Mānoa, my next stop.

Bean-to-bar by the beach

Cacao nibs are half cocoa solids and half cocoa butter, Butterbaugh told me when I finally made it to Mānoa. The factory is connected to the store and chocolate-tasting room/wine bar in a single-story building painted with the cheery, welcoming Mānoa logo and images of cacao plants. When you enter the store from the parking lot, you are hit by the undeniable, enticing scent of roasting cacao.

I followed Butterbaugh through a glass door in the chocolate-making and packaging area. “We buy straight from the farmer or a broker,” says Butterbaugh, explaining one of the key differences between a craft chocolate maker such as Mānoa and a commodity maker such as Hershey. The development of smaller, affordable equipment over the past decade or so has helped facilitate the ever-growing bean-to-bar craft chocolate movement. 

Mānoa makes single-origin bars from Hawaiian-grown chocolate and other bars from blends of internationally sourced beans. “Quality chocolate is a lot about the post-harvest handling,” Butterbaugh says.  We stopped by the roaster, which had a huge front bin filled with warm, just-roasted beans from Uganda. We both thrust a hand into the warm beans. I bit into a bean and tasted that warm, chewy, cacao-buttery center with the slightly crunchy exterior. Okay, this is my favorite thing to do, I thought: Be onsite where the chocolate is being made.

While all chocolate factories are different, the process is basically the same. After being roasted, the beans get winnowed to remove the shell, cracked into nibs, then ground for hours with sugar into liquid in a mixing machine called a mélanger. The molten, refined, super-smooth chocolate is then conched, tempered, poured and packaged.

Mānoa has grown since it started and continues to do so. Butterbaugh is in the process of building out a bigger factory, his fifth upgrade. Other growers and makers are also cropping up in the state, a movement he welcomes. “There could be a hundred more,” he says. “We are going to have the best chocolate in the world coming out of Hawaii.”

That night, I returned to the wine bar for a wine and chocolate tasting — four kinds of chocolate set out on a white plate. It was a full house, with locals and tourists there for the wine, the chocolate and the chance to hear a Mānoa employee singing jazz standards. I sat by myself, across the bar from a 95-year-old woman, and felt that sense of optimism and possibility that travel brings. Drinking wine with chocolate…now this is really my favorite vacation activity, I thought. 

The truth? I’d be happy with just the chocolate. 

If you go

21 Degrees has 2.5-hour, family-friendly tour three times a week, as well as quarterly farm-to-table dinners and “cocoa and flow” goat yoga.

Reserve online at 21Degreesestate.com or through the sustainable travel nonprofit Travel2Change. Mānoa factory tours for adults and kids over 12 are at 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. manoachocolate.com.

Wendy Paris is the author of “Splitopia: Dispatches from Today’s Good Divorce and How to Part Well” and other books. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Psychology Today, Jewish Journal and elsewhere. She lives in Santa Monica.

What To Do if Your Kid Gets Sick on Vacation

Published

By Elena Epstein

When planning family travel, it’s a good idea to put a health plan in place, too. We spoke with Leian Chen, M.D., a mom of two and a pediatrician at UCLA Health Marina del Rey, about what to do if your child gets sick or injured while you’re traveling.

PHOTO COURTESY LEIAN CHEN, M.D.

What should parents do if their child gets sick during a road trip or in another state?

For traveling with children, it is always a good idea to plan ahead with packing some commonly needed items so that you aren’t scrambling at the drugstore while on the road. Examples of things to include would be a simple thermometer, liquid acetaminophen (Tylenol), liquid ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil, for infants/children 6 months and up), sunscreen and first-aid items. Other things to consider would be saline and a snot-sucking device in case your little one gets a cold, motion-sickness medications (such as Dramamine, but check with your doctor) if your child is prone to carsickness, mosquito repellant and some hydrocortisone for itchy bug bites if you’re going to a mosquito-heavy area and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) if your child might be at risk for allergic reactions. Of course, if your child is on any chronic medications or has any prescribed emergency medications, make sure those prescriptions are filled and carried with you — not checked into luggage — at all times.

Fortunately, when on a road trip or traveling domestically, you should be able to get help if your child gets sick. Since the pandemic, many pediatricians have been using telemedicine platforms to provide remote care. You can check with your doctor to see if that’s available in case your child gets sick while you’re on the road and you’d like to see a familiar face for help. Otherwise, urgent cares and the ER are always there for you.

What if your child gets sick when traveling abroad?

When traveling abroad with children, there is a bit more advance planning that is needed. I recommend starting this a few months ahead of your trip, if possible, in order to have time to get everything done. You can start with a consultation with your pediatrician for specific travel advice and reference the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s travelers’ health website for the country to which you are traveling. There may be additional recommended vaccines for your child, and some of these may not be readily available and need to be arranged in advance or even at specialty travel clinics. If your child has chronic or complex health conditions, it would be even more important to get some expert advice before you leave.

Depending on where you are going, common medications for children may not be readily available, in which case you may want to pack more of the over-the-counter medications mentioned already. Remember to also consider things like access to formula, baby food and clean water.

You should discuss with your pediatrician whether you need to bring any additional prescription medications in case of an emergency. Doctors will sometimes provide these to international travelers on a case-by-case basis, but it can be hard to know what might be needed, especially when it comes to antibiotics. Chances are that if your child becomes sick enough to consider antibiotics, they should be seen in order to determine which ones are appropriate. For example, the antibiotic your child would need for traveler’s diarrhea is very different from what they would take for an ear infection. In case your child needs to be seen more urgently or emergently while in another country, make sure to have some local contacts who can help guide you, whether a local host or a hotel concierge. You may also want to think about travelers’ insurance, which can help offset the costs of seeking emergency care in another country.

PHOTO COURTESY LEIAN CHEN, M.D.

What is your top advice for parents in general when traveling with kids?

We’ve covered a lot about what to do to prepare for your child possibly getting sick when traveling, but the best-case scenario would be if we can prevent illnesses and accidents in the first place. Just like with sickness prevention at home, things like staying up to date with routine vaccinations, hand washing, sanitizing and masking (if appropriate) can help reduce transmission of many infectious diseases. It’s also easy to become lax about car seats and safe sleep recommendations when traveling, but please don’t forget about those!

My best advice for traveling with children is to plan ahead, but expect the unexpected and just go with it. With my own kids, I’ve dealt with a fever on a cruise ship, an ear infection on a ski trip and many, many complaints about itchy mosquito bites. While it would have been easy to let these things ruin our time, we had to learn to be flexible, make the best of it and still try to have some fun. Traveling with kids may not be much of a restful vacation, but it will definitely be memorable. Safe travels!

What health & wellness questions are keeping you up at night? Send your questions to elena.epstein@laparent.com, and we’ll ask the experts.

Editor’s Note: The Art of Travel

Published

By Cassandra Lane

It was a hump day. I dropped my son off at school in Downtown L.A. and was just about to pull my car onto the humdrum of concrete that is the 110 South when, impulsively, I stopped in front of Crepes de Paris on Figueroa Street. Instead of rushing back into traffic, why not knock out a bit of work over a cappuccino?

I checked my appearance. Shabby, but better than most school drop-off mornings. I’d pulled on a pair of soft, camel-colored knit pants and a button-up shirt I bought from Target simply because the color conjures up olive orchards in Italy. I’d even popped on gold hoops and slid on Chapstick. I pushed up my sleeves and got out of the car. Shabby, yes, but shabby chic. A kind of relaxed world-traveler look. I stepped inside the little slice of Paris on Figueroa and ordered a cappuccino and spinach crepe.

“For here or to go?” the waitress asked me. I looked around at the charming but empty dining area: an ornate tin ceiling from which slender light fixtures dangled, honeycomb floor tiles, mirrors and sepia photographs encased in antique frames, a vase of tulips placed just so at the front window. Old jazz crackled faintly in the background.

PHOTO BY CASSANDRA LANE

“Here,” I said, brain wheels turning. I had a piece to write. I slipped into a lovely corner and fished a miniature notebook and pen from my purse. I was already writing when the waitress placed my cappuccino on the table. On the cup, in fancy script, these words:

For music – Puccini
For art – Bernini
For espresso – Paquini

A promo, sure, but also a reminder to indulge the senses — at vacation time and even at the beginning of a hump day in your own town. I put my writing tools down for a minute when my crepe, stuffed with fresh spinach, red bell peppers, mushroom, onion and dusted with feta, arrived. The savory goodness brought back memories of my first trip to Paris and of the couple of years I lived just a short walk away from Crepes de Paris. My family and I savored those days of walking everywhere, enjoying nooks and crannies of our city that are easy to miss when driving.

As I ate and sipped slowly, customers on their way to work rushed in to grab takeout orders they’d already called in. Finally, I heard someone say, “We’ll eat here,” and I looked up. It was an older couple. They sat at a table across from me, their shoulders relaxed, their giggles soft. They got up to look closely at some of the photographs on the walls, and we greeted each other. They were visiting from San Diego. Their plan was to tour the museums, have dinner with their daughter and hike Griffith Park for the first time.

 I smiled at their giddiness as I turned back to this month’s issue, which is all about travel. Whether you and your family are getting out of town this summer or staying close, travel well, safely and with the flair of an artist.

Checking In: The Pierside Now Open In Santa Monica

Published

By Chelsee Lowe

Other than the Hollywood Sign, there may be no site more iconic in greater Los Angeles than the Santa Monica Pier. The arched neon sign at its entry debuted in 1940 when the pier actually led to the stated “yacht harbor.” Today, it’s more of a family fun zone. My 10-year-old daughter adores cruising the pier, riding a few rides and trying a snack or two. If I’m with her, we’re definitely stopping at the teeny Hot Dog on a Stick just south of the boardwalk. This red shack, opened in 1946, is as vintage as the pier.

PHOTO COURTESY THE PIERSIDE

I don’t get to Santa Monica that much anymore, but I see the joy of a staycation here, especially for beach-loving families. If you seek a room that’s just steps from the sand, check out The Pierside, a brand new hotel at the corner of Ocean and Colorado avenues (aka, right at the pier). Though the ground floor restaurant and gym are still under construction, the hotel has been welcoming guests since January. There are 132 rooms and suites ready to book, plus a cozy lobby that includes The Board Shop, a one-stop shop for beach necessities, from boogie and surfboards to paddle ball gear. Guests can check out such items at no charge for two hours, perfect for an afternoon by the sea.

The Pierside offers 132 rooms and suites in a cool, coastal color pallete.
PHOTO COURTESY THE PIERSIDE

In the lobby and in guestrooms, a cool, coastal color palette creates a sense of ease and relaxation: You’ve made it the beach, man, so just chill out and have some fun. I love the blue day beds in the rooms (it’s also a pull-out bed) and the cheeky beach wallpaper hidden in the closets. The team has also replaced the hotel desk with a multifuctional living space with mod pedestal table, great for a take-out dinner, but also for a spot to work or just fire off a quick email.

Hotel restaurant The Surfing Fox will debut this summer. PHOTO COURTESY THE PIERSIDE

Outside, a brilliant mural by Shepard Fairy graces nearly the entire west side of the hotel, and there’s a pool perched above the 10 Freeway. Onsite restaurant The Surfing Fox faces Colorado Avenue and is a great place for a meal, whether as a family, as a couple or as a group of friends having cocktails at the bar. If you want views of the neon Santa Monica Pier sign, settle yourself out on the bar-adjacent patio. My husband and I brought our two kids, ages 10 and 3, for an early dinner recently, and everything we tried was impressive. Favorites included the burrata with salsa macha, peaches, arugula and toasted bread; the incredibly aromatic cilantro rice; the “Fox Fries,” which of course pleased the youngest in our bunch; and my husband’s “Caulilini,” a dinner entree of an expertly roasted cauliflower head dressed up with calabrian chili tahini, mint and a garlic-miso oil. Note that happy hour snacks and drinks are offered on weekdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. (great hours for families), and there’s live music every Friday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

And of course, this corner of Santa Monica is full of additional family-friendly activities, and you don’t really need to get in your car for them. Walk in bluff-side Palisades Park or Tongva Park (both neighbor the hotel) and take the littles to Cayton Children’s Museum. If you want to try a part of the beach that’s particularly great for kids, hike it to Annenberg Community Beach House, where a historic pool, splash pad, playground, and a beach restaurant await. This is one of my family’s favorite Santa Monica spots.

Guests can borrow beach gear from The Board Shop in the lobby. PHOTO COURTESY THE PIERSIDE

There are must-visit places nearby for adults, too. If you can manage to sneak away for an evening, grab a steak (and some complimentary peanuts) at local haunt Chez Jay, which has been operating since 1959, or visit Ester’s Wine Shop for a wine-and-cheese filled escape. And do not miss some of the best sandwiches in greater L.A., which you’ll find at Bay Cities Italian Deli on Lincoln Boulevard. These make for perfect picnic food, no matter where you’re setting up your blanket.

After all of your adventures, you’ll be thrilled to head back to The Pierside, your (temporary) home by the sea.

Family Road Trip: The Carlsbad Flower Fields

Published

By Chelsee Lowe

The Flower Fields in Carlsbad. PHOTO COURTESY MARCIE GONZALEZ

All this rain has left many of us more than ready to get outside. In my own yard, orange blossoms have begun to bloom, the grass is a vibrant green, doves have made a nest and my kids are happy as clams when they’re out there burning all that energy we adults can only envy.

It’s also that time of year when I look at the calendar and wonder where an easy road trip or getaway might be plugged in, just a jaunt to get us in the sun, soaking up Vitamin D and all that warmth. Recently I was reminded of a great (and seasonal) road trip I took with my oldest daughter when she was about five: The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch.

Open every spring for more than 60 years, this curated hillside is a spectacular flower display that you get up close and personal with. Brilliant ranuculus are planted across 55 acres of Carlsbad hillside, and when I visited years ago, my daughter was thrilled to walk along the dirt paths that edge the fields, noting petals and insects and the fuzzy, gangly stems of these cool flowers. And because I’ve long counted ranunculus among my favorite blooms, I was pleased to be in their company as well.

Every year it seems that the family-friendly offerings here grow and grow, right along with the flowers. There’s a tractor-drawn wagon ride, a two-acre area for u-pick blueberries (always a fun and delicious activity for kids), a greenhouse full of poinsettias (in case that’s among your own favorite flowers) and a demonstration garden to inspire your own plantings, even if the space you have to work with is small. A flower field grown as the American Flag is also rather astounding. Yoga by the fields, picnics, sunset wine tasting and more are part of a very full events calendar, too.

Of course, many families will opt to add this destination to an itinerary that includes Legoland, which is less than one mile from here (and just opened the first ever Miniland, a city with more that five million Lego bricks). Other local points of interest include Batiquitos Lagoon (great for a family stroll) and Carlsbad State Beach.

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch opened March 1 and will welcome guests until Mother’s Day, May 14. Buying tickets in advance is suggested. Entry is $12 and up, though children under 3 are free. $23 for adults, $21 for seniors 60+ and military, and free for children under three.

Aeriel view of the fields.
PHOTO COURTESY THE FLOWER FIELDS OF CARLSBAD AT CARLSBAD RANCH

It’s Time to Thrive

Published

Welcome to our Family Health issue, where we’re starting the new year with a commitment to ourselves and to all those who we love and care for to talk more about mind and body wellness. That means to give ourselves permission to open up when we’re not feeling well, when we’re overwhelmed, depressed and anxious. 

Letting go of the need to always “be fine” is a huge step toward wellbeing. 

In this issue, we explore ways to talk to our kids about mental health, more effective ways to set boundaries, interacting with gemstones to intentionally slow down and revisiting yoga as a family.

We also have a nourishing seaweed soup from a local L.A. chef and two different types of travel inspiration – a couples getaway to Honolulu and a mother-daughter California coast road trip. As parents, we know that true wellness is not just about our physical health – its mind, body and soul. Let’s make 2023 a year to nurture all of our senses and all the different parts that make us whole. 

Happy New Year!

One Down Dog yoga studio owner Jessica Rosen practices a yoga pose with her son Max. PHOTO BY JEVONE MOORE

On the Cover

This month’s cover models are Jessica Rosen and her son Max. Rosen is the owner of One Down Dog (onedowndog.com) yoga studio, which has three locations, as well as online classes. 

                  Photographer Jevone Moore photographed Jessica and Max inside One Down Dog in Echo Park. Learn more about his work at fullimage360.com and @fullimage360 on Instagram.

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Sign up at laparent.com to receive our two weekly newsletters. On Mondays, we highlight some of our most useful (and fun) articles. And we round up the very best events of the weekend on Thursdays! 

Find Your Perfect California Getaway this Summer

Published

By Katie Moore

Want to take a vacation but only have a few days to spare and don’t want to blow all your money on plane tickets? We know how stressful planning vacations can be, especially if you have toddlers with lots of enthusiasm, and teens with little to none. But we’ve got you covered with some amazing travel spots all here in our lovely state of California. There are so many things to see and do, and the best part is they’re easy to get to. Whether you’re looking to be in the mountains or on the beach, read below and find your perfect California getaway. 

Chill on the Coast 

The Skunk Train chugging through Fort Bragg

Whether you’re in NorCal or SoCal, there are plenty of coastal getaways for families who love being by the water. For those looking to travel up north, the city of Fort Bragg is home to some of the Mendocino Coast’s greatest treasures including Glass Beach and the beloved Skunk Train! This year the Skunk Train is offering a variety of events, including Cinema in the Redwoods, a night of cinema classics under the stars and the trees, and Music in the Redwoods, a collection of live bands that perform on the platform as you ride the train. All of these amazing experiences are just a train ride away, and you can check out more on their website. 

For families who want to stay near L.A. for a day trip to the beach, the beaches in Ventura have it all. You can watch a beautiful sunset out on the Ventura Beach Pier, catch some waves and take a surf lesson or two, and even check out the Ventura County Fair happening Aug. 3 – 14. Ventura is also home to many dog-friendly beaches for those who want to bring a furry friend on vacation, too. The Board of Port Commissioners announced that lifeguards will be back and present daily at Ventura Harbor beaches, so families can fully relax and enjoy the sun knowing their safety is a priority. 

Make the Most of the Mountains

We southern Californians know how important it is to beat the heat in the scorching summer, but how about we up the elevation rather than the air conditioning. Big Bear Lake is a quick and easy drive from L.A., and this year they aren’t just offering fun in the winter. If you’re heading up the mountain, be sure to check out Alpine Slide Big Bear, a cool family-fun spot that’s home to water rides and various track coasters. The variety of activities offered — from the higher speed Mineshaft Coaster to the easy going mini-golf course — is sure to suit families with kids of all ages. You could also round out your trip to Big Bear Lake with a visit to the Big Bear Alpine Zoo (one of only two alpine zoos in the U.S.), or on a hike on one of the many trails with amazing lookout points. 

Want to extend your mountain travels? Well, right down the road from Big Bear Lake there is more fun to be had at Lake Arrowhead, home to the Lake Arrowhead Village, which is hosting tons of events all summer long. Their summer concert series runs every weekend until Labor Day and offers both standing room and picnic table seating all with great views of center stage. The Village is also home to the docking point of the Lake Arrowhead Queen, a small river boat that offers hourly tours of the lake and the beautiful houses surrounding it. You’ll get to see the lake from a whole different perspective and get a chance to learn about the town’s history on this one of a kind narrated tour on the water.

Apples and Cider and Wine… Oh My!

Whether you’re looking for a romantic parents’ getaway to one of over 400 of the county’s wineries, or a festive family visit to a local small town, Sonoma County is the perfect in-state vacation spot. This year the town of Sebastopol, CA, is bringing back the Gravenstein Apple Fair at Ragle Ranch Regional Park on Aug. 13 and 14. This year’s theme for the fair is “Cultivating Community” and will be the anchor for the 24 live musical acts, hundreds of family-friendly activities and of course some of the most delicious fair food and locally sourced wines. The fair will also feature “Life on the Farm” attractions, complete with farming discussion panels, jam and cider-making demos and an animal meet and greet area for the kids.

Summer in San Diego 

Just a two hour drive from L.A., San Diego has plenty of opportunities for family fun. For those looking to enjoy live music this summer, the San Diego Symphony is the oldest orchestra and is hosting quite the lineup of special guests, including Boyz II Men, Jennifer Hudson, and Elvis Costello. The symphony will hold their concerts at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, a state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue right on the waterfront. Another great and unique attraction is the Del Mar Racetrack, the nation’s only seaside racetrack with a beachy vibe all its own. The racetrack has something for everyone, whether it’s a premium view of the ocean, the thrill of 100 mph racers or cocktails to sip while you sit. Racing season runs from July 22 to Sept. 11, so better get a trip planned and buy your tickets now. 

You can also bring a little nostalgia and a lot of fun to your summer with a trip to Sesame Place San Diego, a theme park dedicated to the iconic show, “Sesame Street,” packed with rides, water slides, parades and more. Families of all ages, but especially little ones, can enjoy everything from a ride on Elmo’s Rockin Rockets to the “Welcome To Our Street!” show. Also nearby Sesame Place, adventure awaits at SeaWorld San Diego. This year, SeaWorld is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Wild Arctic exhibit, home to Chou Chou the walrus, Klondike the beluga whale and other amazing animals. Want to get up close and personal with these one-of-a-kind creatures? SeaWorld is offering a summer special price of $55 a ticket on weekdays, and they’ve also joined forces with Sesame Place to offer two-day park packages at special discounted prices.  

We know this isn’t an exhaustive list, but we hope it’ll kickstart some of your vacation imagination. Read this article, decided to take a trip to one of the mentioned destinations, and posted about it on social media? Go ahead and tag us or use our #LAParentTravels to share your family fun!

Day Trips: Easy Family-Friendly Getaways from L.A.

Published

By Nina Harada

Avalon is just one hour away from Southern California’s coast. PHOTO COURTESY LOVE CATALINA ISLAND

Sometimes budget, schedules and other barriers can get in the way of our summer plans. However, creating a memorable summer break for our kids doesn’t necessarily require big family vacations or international travel. From L.A., we have access to many vacation-worthy destinations that are just a couple of hours way. Get an early start for your day trip to beautiful beachside cities, cool mountain towns or low-key wine valleys and be home by dinner.

Beach cities

Just a little over an hour drive north of L.A., Ventura is a laid-back, scenic beach town that is a kid-friendly haven. Channel Islands National Park’s visitor center features a live tidal pool, shop, exhibits and viewing tower with views of Ventura Harbor, the Ventura coastline and the Channel Islands. If you want to experience the Channel Islands up close, reserve tickets for Island Packers’ Channel Islands Wildlife Cruise, a 3.5-hour ride, which might include whale and dolphin sightings. Browse shops and art galleries at Ventura Harbor Village and enjoy free live music on Sundays. Harbor Cove Beach, lovingly referred to as “Mother’s Beach” due to its protected shoreline, is a perfect spot for families to enjoy a beach day.

Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens hosts family-friendly concerts, movies and more all summer long. PHOTO COURTESY CASA ROMANTICA CULTURAL CENTER AND GARDENS

Make the short hour or so drive south to be transported to San Clemente, that “Spanish Village by the Sea.” Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens truly embodies the city’s slogan with its Spanish-style architecture, lush gardens and ocean views. Enjoy family programming all summer long.

Head down the hill to San Clemente Pier for beautiful ocean views, restaurants and people watching. Grab a coffee or ice cream from one of the cafes along Avenida Victoria and stroll along the San Clemente Beach Trail. Kids will love watching the Pacific Surfliner go by and swinging on the San Clemente Pier swings on the beach.

Channel Islands National Park’s visitor center has several educational displays . PHOTO COURTESY VENTURA HARBOR VILLAGE

You can experience an island getaway without even leaving Los Angeles County. Located on Santa Catalina Island, Avalon is just 22 miles (an hour-long boat ride) from the coast of Southern California. Catalina Express runs year-round from San Pedro, Long Beach and Dana Point. The boat ride will keep your kids entertained, and once you arrive on shore, there is plenty more to explore — rent a golf cart for scenic island tours, browse shops and galleries and eat at cafes and restaurants. Other highlights: reserve a cabana at Descanso Beach Club and have your lunch on the sand. Take a hike to Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens for beautiful views of Avalon Bay or see what’s on display at Catalina Museum for Art & History. If you have a late boat ride back, stay for one of the free movies or concerts happening this summer.

Cool mountain towns

If you’re seeking refuge from the L.A. summer heat, escape to the San Bernardino Mountains, an easy two-hour drive away and about 20 degrees cooler. Though most famous for skiing and snowboarding, Big Bear has all the makings for a perfect summer day: a dip in the lake, fishing, hiking through the forest and more.

Browse the gift shops and boutiques at The Village, Big Bear’s charming downtown district. For a little more adventure, head to Alpine Slide Big Bear for mini golf, go-kart racing, a family-friendly double water slide and the main attraction, an alpine slide with a quarter-mile track offering scenic views of Big Bear. End the day at the ice cream bar, with 12 flavors to choose from. Big Bear Lake has plenty of fun offerings, from paddleboards to jet skis to boat tours. Bring your fishing gear for a chance at catching some trout and your swimsuit if you want to brave the cool lake water.

Play a round of mini golf at Alpine Slide Big Bear. PHOTO COURTESY ALPINE SLIDE BIG BEAR

The quaint mountain town of Idyllwild is also just a two-hour drive from L.A. Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is known for its artsy vibe. Idyllwild Art in the Park blends art and nature with an eclectic mix of ceramics, paintings, photography, live music and more this summer and fall. Downtown Idyllwild is full of galleries, specialty shops and antique stores. Schedule a guided tour with Idyllwild Nature Center to learn about local mountain ecology, Cahuilla Native culture and the history of the area. For an afternoon both adults and kids can enjoy, head over to Middle Ridge Winery, a wine-tasting room with an art gallery and outdoor seating open Fridays through Mondays.

Low-key wine valleys

When you can’t escape to wine country, head out to one of our lovely nearby wineries.

Malibu is known for having some of California’s most beautiful beaches, but it’s also home to wineries. Take a mid-weekday trip to Rosenthal – The Malibu Estate, where children are welcome. Bring a picnic and enjoy wine tasting at the only wine bar and tasting room on the Pacific Coast Highway. Experience Malibu wine country on foot with Malibu Wine Hikes, fun and educational tours that travel through Saddleback Ranch, a vineyard and working ranch the whole family can enjoy. If you’re day tripping without the kids, definitely stop by Cornell Winery & Tasting Room, a unique tasting room featuring local wines, wild peacocks and live music. Next door is The Old Place, a rustic 50-year-old restaurant with old-school staples such as steak and eggs, BLTs, Caesar salad and loaded baked potatoes.

Bottaia Winery features a family-friendly pool and café. PHOTO COURTESY VISIT TEMECULA VALLEY

Temecula Valley, just 90 miles southeast of L.A., features nearly 50 wineries, a charming downtown, fine dining and kid-friendly restaurants with beautiful views and live music. Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards offers daily tastings, a restaurant, expansive grounds for picnicking and even a playground. Europa Village transports you to Spain, France and Italy with its wine cave, olive-oil tastings, tapas bar and rose gardens. Italian-inspired Bottaia Winery is 21 and over, but the pool and Pool Café + Cocktail Bar are for all ages.

For a break from wineries, take older kids on a hot-air balloon ride over the valley and younger kids to encounter animal friends at The Alpaca Hacienda or Sugarplum Zoo and Chocolates, a petting zoo that offers wine and chocolate tastings. Temecula is also known for its resorts and spas, but you might have to leave the kids home with the grandparents for that.

Nina Harada is Digital Editor of L.A. Parent.

Make a Splash at Oceanside’s Newest Beachside Hotels 

Published

By Margot Black

Oceanside is the beach town that will make you rethink what it means to relax. During our recent family Oceanside getaway, our mission was to simply check in and relax. And The Seabird Resort delivered this in spades. 

The Seabird’s Resort and its prime spot on the beach in Oceanside. PHOTO COURTESY THE SEABIRD’S RESORT

Oceanside welcomed The Seabird and its neighboring sister property, Mission Pacific Hotel, in May 2021. As the largest beach development in San Diego County in 50 years, both hotels majestically stand as a testament to a game-changing new era for Oceanside as a Southern California travel destination. 

If the thought “I really need a vacation from my vacation” has ever crossed your mind, you should consider spending a weekend at The Seabird or Mission Pacific. The unparalleled ease and effortlessness of a stay at Oceanside’s newest hotels is like a breath of fresh seaside air. And the chic hotel atmosphere coupled with Oceanside’s laid-back spirit was the perfect recipe for our weekend of relaxation. 


Super-chic poolside fun at the Mission Pacific Hotel. PHOTO BY MARGOT BLACK

This is such a great getaway for Angelenos with kids because it offers refreshingly easy access from L.A., along with the possibility of a car-free vacation. I highly recommend booking tickets on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner train from Union Station in L.A. to Oceanside. Taking the trai is a wonderful travel alternative because it allows you to relax during this two-hour coastal ride and avoid all the traffic. Additionally, The Seabird and Mission Pacific are nestled just one block from the Amtrak station, and there’s even an on-site concierge service to transport guests’ bags from the train station. 

And best of all, once you arrive, you can fully immerse yourself in the stress-free comfort of a car-free holiday. There’s no need to drive anywhere because everything you need is within a four-block radius of both hotels. And they are across the street from a beachside playground!  Just plop and drop at these properties, then rest assured that there’s abundant playtime for all. You really can’t do any better for a family-friendly Southern California escape.  

Where to stay 

Writer Margot Black and her family. PHOTO COURTESY MARGOT BLACK

Guests of both The Seabird and Mission Pacific can enjoy access to the public spaces and programs at either property, so it’s really like one integrated destination within itself. And with so many options for family-friendly activities, luxe amenities and entertainment, it’s the perfect parental plop and drop in a super chic but not pretentious setting. 

There’s delicious dining venues, a family-friendly beach setup adjacent to Oceanside Pier Playground, rooftop pool decks, an art gallery, a library/game room for relaxing, fire pits with iconic ocean views for cocktail and snack time, shopping, a spa escape and assistance all around to get everyone (especially mom!) refreshed and ready to go again. 

Fun activities for the whole family

Renting a private cabana is a great way to really enjoy the pool at the Seabird Resort. PHOTO BY MARGOT BLACK

Alongside an easy beach setup and cozy pool area that’s well-suited for families, The Seabird provides an impressive array of thoughtfully planned activities to keep kids ages 4-14 engaged as part of the “Little Seabirds” program. From seashell and rock panting to treasure hunts and kite flying, playtime abounds. And for a parent’s night out, The Seabird also offers a supervised Kid’s Club on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m.-9 p.m.  

For family pool time, I would recommend renting a private pool cabana as a fun treat. The cabana detail really made our pool day an event and gave us a respite to ourselves. Even if the pool area is crowded, you’ll still feel like you have your own personal lounge area that’s yours to keep congregating back to all day.

Our family beach day was also a breeze thanks to the resort’s Beach Rambler kiosk where you can reserve complimentary chairs and umbrellas that their team sets up. Unwind after your beach day with some evening snacks and refreshing drinks around the hotel’s gas fire pits. 

The resort has complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas that staff will set up for you. PHOTO BY MARGOT BLACK

A chic seaside escape 

One of the major highlights was checking in to Sunny’s Spa at The Seabird for a blissful massage. Getting pampered and renewed with a spa escape is exactly what any mom needs on vacation—the MVP of relaxation. I felt so at peace in the spa’s light and airy lounge area with stunning Pacific views that I never wanted to leave. Surrounded by shades of blue repeating everywhere — underfoot, in my eyes and the glistening Pacific Ocean, I felt a calmness that was like hitting the reset button.  

Mission Pacific’s swanky Rooftop Bar was just the ticket to celebrate and enjoy some tasty cocktails, glorious Pacific views and gorgeous sunsets. And if you’re looking for some shopping, head to The Ozone gift shop at The Mission Pacific to pick up some stylish items. 

A tasty light lunch at at High/Low at the Mission Pacific Hotel. PHOTO BY JETT BLACK

Where to eat

Within the Seabird, head to Piper for dinner and check out their inventive made-to-order pasta station with a fun open-kitchen design. At Mission Pacific, sample some breakfast classics and casual midday eats at HIGH/LOW. This chill oceanfront café was the perfect vantage point to enjoy a lazy brunch and to watch surfers catching waves. And to satisfy your sweet tooth, you can’t miss out on the High Pie shop at The Mission Pacific’s interior courtyard. This pie shop is housed in the charming Victorian cottage that was featured in the 1986 movie “Top Gun.”

The resort’s Beach Rambler kiosk is where you can reserve complimentary chairs and umbrellas. PHOTO BY MARGOT BLACK

From dining to recreation, everything you need for some easy-breezy family fun time is all within these two fabulous hotels. It’s the perfect car-free vacation and the perfect spot to experience maximum fun with minimum fuss and some much-deserved relaxation next to the sea. 

Margot Black is a travel writer and mom based in L.A.

2022 Guide to Summer Fun

Published

By Nina Harada

The summer season has arrived; let the family travel and fun commence! Our friends at the National Parenting Product Awards have put together a list of all the best summer travel gear, games, crafts and more in their annual Summer Fun & Travel Guide. The guide includes over 100 NAPPA Award-winning products that have been tested and evaluated. From summer music and summer reading to nostalgic fun and imaginative play, this guide will help you and your family have a blast all summer long.

NAPPA Awards is a family-focused brand with a mission to “showcase the best toys, learning tools, games, books, music, baby, family and home products.” It has been serving families for more than 32 years.

For even more product reviews, check out nappaawards.com

Hotel Spotlight: Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

Published

Elena Epstein

One of the gorgeous walking paths at Estancia La Jolla
Walking path at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa.

First Impression

Stepping into Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa is like stepping into a storybook. The charming AAA Four-Diamond boutique hotel is located in one of the most picturesque towns in SoCal. My family and I love sunny weekends in La Jolla and this sprawling hacienda-style hotel will not disappoint.

As you walk in the parking lot, you’re greeted with the revitalizing scent of Myer lemon tress dotting the property. There are adobe fireplaces, art installations and reading nooks among olive, cypress and magnolia trees. You’ll also recognize inspirational quotes from books engraved throughout the property – on steps, on walls and on arches. I spotted one of my favorites: “If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden.” 

The 210 rooms feature luxurious linens and a bottle of wine upon arrival. The heated saltwater pool and whirlpool offer a relaxing retreat. And Mustangs & Burros, not far from the pool, offers handmake tacos and hand-shaken margaritas.

A Special Touch

Pups are not only welcomed here, but they can lounge at Mustangs & Burros and have their pick from a special dog menu prepared by the executive chef. The hotel also offers a pet-friendly travel program featuring a comfy dog bed, locally made grain-free peanut-butter treats and dog walking and pet sitting services. The hotel is less than nine miles from the dog-friendly beach at Del Mar North Beach.

What’s Near By

Estancia La Jolla is centrally located on Torrey Pines Road, just a short drive to La Jolla Shores and Village of La Jolla with beautiful beaches, parks and restaurants and shops. Also close by is Westfield UTC, featuring a movie theater, lots of restaurants and beautiful outdoor sitting areas. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is not far and offers a variety of hiking trails overlooking the Pacific Ocean. You can also tee off atop soaring cliffs at Torrey Pines Golf Course or try a different view paragliding or hand gliding at Torrey Pines Gliderport.

The Showstopper

The stunning landscape includes a secret garden, wishing tree and walking paths lined with flowers. There is no question why this former 1880s equestrian estate is a popular spot for outdoor weddings.

As you stroll through 10 acres of lush gardens and courtyards, you’ll see California native plants such as toyon, bougainvilleas from South America, Senecio plants from South Africa and eucalyptus trees from Australia.

California pepper trees and agaves greet you as you enter the hotel. There are two rose gardens, a Mediterranean-style garden known as the Olive Lawn, a succulent garden filled with aloes, agaves and euphorbias, and the Garden Courtyard, with a little of everything to create an enchanting oasis.

The hotel also features a “wishing tree,” where guests can write down their hopes and intentions to hang on a branch. Reading the handwritten notes gently blowing with the breeze was just as soothing as penning my own dreams. As I walked from branch to branch, I read the different notes each in its own unique script: wishes for good health, happy times with family, success for a child, speedy recovery for a friend. It was a beautiful way to slow down, set intentions and just be.

The Entrance to the Estancia
The Wishing Tree
The Wishing Tree
California artist Channin Fulton’s mural in the garden
Elena Epstein and her daughter, Emily
Can you spot the quote along the steps?
View of the Courtyard Garden
View of the Courtyard Garden
Breakfast at Greenfinch at Estancia
Sitting area by the pool
Outdoor games by the pool
Saltwater pool

Estancia La Jolla is located at 9700 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037; estanciallajolla.com.

Best Travel Gear

Published

Elena Epstein

Summer travel is on the horizon and we want you to hit the road in comfort and safety with these NAPPA Award-winning products.

PIPA lite rx

Lightweight and packed with all the features you need to make life with baby easier. Take from taxi to family car, thanks to the option of belt path or base installation. This “has-it-all” seat features a canopy drape, Merino wool insert, magnetic buckle holders, and a no-rethread harness that adjusts seamlessly with the headrest so you don’t have to reinstall the harness when your child grows. $499.95, infants – 32 lbs and 32in, nunababy.com/usa

Evenflo Gold Revolve360

Features a unique 360-degree swivel seat. This innovative turning motion gives parents the ability to simply rotate the seat to get their child in and out of the car safely. Grows with your child, offering with 3 modes of use: rear facing, forward facing, and high back booster. $379.99, ages 4lbs-120lbs. evenflo.com

MINU V2

Go places, big and small with this sleek stroller that can do it all while staying small. Designed for your daily adventures and exciting excursions, this updated version offers everything you need while staying super portable and lightweight. $449.99, ages up to 50 lbs. uppababy.com

TRVL

At the touch of a button on the push bar, this stroller self-folds into a super-compact, free-standing package. Ultra-lightweight, the stroller is easy to carry with the arm bar when folded or go hands-free and store away during travel with the carry bag. $449.95, ages up to 50 lbs, nunababy.com

Peek-A-Boo Convertible Hobo Backpack

Switching out your diaper bag from one style to another is simple with this one-of-a-kind design. Go from a hobo shoulder bag to a crossbody to a backpack with just a few adjustments. It can be hung from a stroller—or on top of a luggage handle—versatile and easy to take anywhere. $165, twelvelittle.com

REMI

Create a sleep zone anywhere with this lightweight and portable playard. Sets up and folds down in seconds. A unique perforated design makes the mattress breathable, creating a comfy, healthy place to both rest and play. Also features a zip-down access panel to help you soothe your baby or retrieve a pacifier gone rogue. $349.99, up to 30 lbs, uppababy.com

Contours Journey 5 Position Baby Carrier

No infant insert is required for your newborn, which means less fabric and more comfort for you and your little one. Our extra-large, infinitely adjustable UPF 25 sunshade can be moved up or down to give baby maximum coverage. $119.99, ages from 8-45 lb, contoursbaby.com

Contours Explor 2 Stage Portable Booster Seat and Diaper Bag

The must-have travel and mealtime product that both you and your child will love. This lightweight, compact accessory is a stylish solution for two everyday parenting products. $49.99, ages 9 months+, contoursbaby.com

Kolcraft Travel Duo 2-in-1 Portable Booster Seat and Diaper Bag

Whether you’re headed to a restaurant or a family weekend trip, this 2-in-1 travel duo is great for on-the-go. Water-resistant and machine-washable. Once mealtime is over, pack up your essentials with 8 organizational pockets and a spacious interior compartment. $34.99, ages 9 months – up to 60 lbs, kolcraft.com

comfiGO Kids Friendly Car Booster Seat

A comfortable and convenient car booster seat great for travel. Its shoulder guide smoothly adjusts the car’s seat belt to your child’s height, and the patented stretchable, and adjustable lap band keeps the vehicle’s lap belt section low on the hips. $59.95, ages 4-12, clypx.com

WhizRider

A convenient, safe portable car seat option. This innovative harness-style restraint system is a backless booster seat alternative. Great for family travel, carpooling, ride-sharing, 3-in-a-row and more. $79.99, ages 3-10, whizrider.com

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

Travel in Style

Published

Elena Epstein

As you gear up for your summer travels, whether on a road trip or by plane, we have some great NAPPA Award-winning essentials to keep you and your family in style, while staying super comfy.

Igor Jelly Sandals

Great for a day at the beach or fun at the park, these adorable sandals are made of high-quality PVC, feature a hook and loop closure, come in a variety of colors and are made in Spain. $46, ages birth-25 months, justshoesforkids.com

Molly Tulle Dress

Take a little bit of dress and a little bit of play and get this adorable find featuring a playful drop waist, jersey cotton top/tulle skirt and light tee quality for summer comfort. $48, sizes 2-8, sammyandnat.com

The Lucy

A tank top style full maternity bodysuit that’s cozy and easy to style with any item in your closet. Double-Lined for extra support. $130, bumpsuit.co

Tumbl Bear Impact Absorbing Hats

An innovative range of children’s hats (beanies, bucket hats, caps) that look, feel and wear like everyday hats, and feature a hidden layer of high absorption impact foam. $49.95, ages 6 months-6 years, tumblbear.com

Bamboo Seamless No Rub Thigh Saver

Ultra-soft, lightweight and breathable. With a seamless, smooth design and built-in gusset, these also work well as an undergarment for skirts and dresses. Choose the Maternity cut (with an over-the-bump panel and gentle support for your growing bump) or the Postpartum cut (which sits at your natural waist). $19.99, kindredbravely.com

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

Oxnard: A Fun Family Getaway

Published

Kids love a good adventure. If you’re traveling with a little one and don’t want to spend too much time in the car – head north to Oxnard. This family-favorite getaway is a perfect destination to visit on a day trip or long weekend. From hidden gems and pristine beaches, good eats and fun parks, there’s plenty to explore just an hour away from LA. 

Beaches 

If you want fun in the sun, don’t miss Silver Strand Beach. We drove towards the end of the beach just off Sawtelle Avenue to check out the unique murals from California-based artists and watched the waves crash on the historic remains of the La Jenelle Shipwreck. 

For lunch, we picked up lobster tacos and a brisket sandwich from The Strandwich and brought them to the beach for a family picnic. Just a short drive from here, you’ll find Mandalay Beach, another gem in Oxnard. The Ed Hunt Rehab Point is an accessible scenic walking and bike path that weaves throughout the dunes so everyone can access the beach. Kids will love the playground and pirate jungle gym at Oxnard Beach Park.

Channel Islands Harbor + Seabridge Marina 

My one-year-old loves boats, and we had a blast watching them pass us by at Channel Islands Harbor. We also got to see the sea lions on the docks. On Sundays, Channel Islands Harbor Farmers Market is the place to be to pick up local strawberries, shop for unique gifts and sample fresh-baked goodies, including chocolate chip cookies. 

Hot tip: If you want to enjoy lunch with a view, order fish tacos at Sea Fresh and sit on one of the benches along the water. You can also rent kayaks from Channel Islands Kayak Center, Duffy boats and check out Southern California Jet Skis for a fun, unique adventure. 

The Seabridge Marina is a fun place to spend the afternoon. There are two playgrounds for the kids to enjoy. Celebrating a special occasion? Oxnard-based Pop Up Party Rentals creates beautiful boho and vintage-themed picnic setups. Seabridge is a great place to enjoy fish and chips from Fisherman’s Catch and enjoy a family picnic overlooking the water. This is a great place to walk and enjoy the view just before sunset. 

Downtown Oxnard + The Collection at RiverPark 

When you’re in town, go where the locals eat for the best meals. BG’s Cafe is a classic hometown breakfast spot in Downtown Oxnard that serves breakfast all day, and the portions are incredibly generous. Just across Plaza Park, Tacos El Diablo makes delicious authentic Mexican food, including sopes, tacos and Aguas Frescas.  

Before you head home, take the kids to the Collection at RiverPark. The outdoor playground is suitable for kids of all ages, and Jump ‘n Jammin is an indoor entertainment center designed for kids. There’s a little bit of magic around every corner, including turtle ponds near the outdoor playground and plenty of open space for little ones to run around. We loved exploring the murals and unique Oxnard artwork. 

Want to grab something to go or need to pick up snacks for your road trip home? The Annex Food Hall has a mix of local places to eat, including Pho, pizza and acai bowls. I really enjoyed the matcha latte at Ragamuffin Coffee Roasters. 

Where to Stay 

While in Oxnard, we stayed at Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor. The location offers spectacular views of the harbor, and it’s next to Peninsula Park. We visited the playground each day of our stay. When traveling with kids, it’s very convenient to have a complimentary hot breakfast at the hotel and an outdoor pool. The rooms are pet-friendly, and there’s also a fitness center. If you stay here, don’t leave home without a visit to Toppers Pizza. It’s a short walk away, and trust us, you won’t be disappointed. 

Alejandra Cerball is an award-winning journalist, writer, and editor of alexcerball.com, a Travel + Lifestyle online destination filled with compelling and honest travel tips + resources. On her blog, Alex shares inspiration for your bucket list, travel + adventure itineraries, and style guides to help you pack for your next trip.

Down by the Bay

Published

By Nina Harada

Tropical vibes at the Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa will put you in instant vacation mode. PHOTO COURTESY CATAMARAN RESORT HOTEL & SPA

The last time I was in San Diego, my husband Jeremy and I were celebrating the ninth year of our first date. We rarely “go all out,” but nine is sort of our lucky number, so we treated ourselves to sushi, champagne and other delights. We had no idea what was brewing beneath the spirits we sipped.

I was pregnant.

When, a few weeks later, I learned I was going to have a baby, I fretted over the alcohol I’d consumed. I worried, too, about what we might lose: Will my husband and I ever have fancy dinners and relaxing oceanside vacations again? Fortunately, the answer was yes — and sooner than we thought.

On a recent Friday, with our toddler Naomi in tow, we returned to the place where we last indulged in kid-free bliss. The best part of the trip was learning that enjoying gourmet meals, ocean views and everything else San Diego has to offer with our daughter is another kind of bliss. As new parents, we had no idea that our SoCal neighbor was such a great option for family-friendly vacationing. When the wonderful team at Discover Mission Bay put together an itinerary for my family, I was skeptical of our welcome meal at the upscale Oceana Coastal Kitchen or live music night at Barefoot Bar & Grill. In my mind, you couldn’t have a fun night out with a beer and band…and kid.

Barefoot Bar & Grill features live performances Fridays and Saturdays. PHOTO COURTESY BAREFOOT BAR & GRILL

After checking in at the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, we walked down the tiki torch-lit path to Oceana Coastal Kitchen, Catamaran’s signature seafood restaurant with a view. At 8:30 p.m., a children’s birthday party was underway and we passed three other tables full of young children giggling and wiggling in their seats. My husband and I looked at each other with relief. To top it off, our server came to our table with crayons in hand. When we ordered our dinner, he asked us if we wanted our daughter’s meal to come out first, a simple detail that curbed any potential meltdowns.

Jeremy and I dined on sushi, perfectly cooked striped bass and sweet fennel sausage flatbread. “Mmm, this is good,” my daughter said, nodding her head as she ate her battered fish, French fries and ketchup. When she reached her limit, as toddlers are quick to do, Jeremy took her on a short stroll down to the beach on the bay. Freeway traffic, upcoming appointments and other everyday stresses slipped away as I watched the silhouettes of my husband and daughter holding hands against the sparkling bay water while I sipped on my sparkling rosé. And we hadn’t even unpacked our bags yet.

The next morning, we woke up to the most beautiful sunrise right outside our hotel room door. “Is so beautiful, mama,” Naomi observed, sitting between the drapes and the sliding glass door. “Look at the colors!” she squealed, face pressed against the glass.

After a hearty room service breakfast, we were ready to tackle what else Mission Bay had to offer. The truth is, we could’ve spent our whole vacation without leaving The Catamaran. The Polynesian-inspired hotel, opened in 1958, has tropical touches such as tiki totems, towering palm trees and friendly parrots that make you forget you’re in California. Other features — the massive indoor waterfall, koi pond with turtles and wandering ducks, a full-service beachfront spa, pool, old-school arcade, an outdoor lounge and sunset luaus in the summer — will entertain kids and adults all weekend long. After dragging ourselves from the hotel, we set out for Belmont Park, just a mile-and-a-half down Mission Boulevard.

There’s a ride for everyone at Belmont Park. PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

You could spend all day at the beachfront amusement park with its many food options, shopping, activities and, of course, rides. Families with older kids will love the bumper cars, swinging gondola ride Beach Blaster and Mission Beach’s historical wooden roller coaster, the Giant Dipper. Little ones (and the no-thrills types like me) will appreciate the classic carousel, a leisurely train ride on Belmont Express, mini golf and mini bowling, which was a big hit for our 3 year old. By noon, it was time for lunch and a rest on the giant hammock in our private bay view patio. Once recharged, we made our way to De Anza Cove Park to try our hand at kite-flying. Our daughter preferred to run free in the large grassy field, occasionally finding an abandoned volleyball or soccer ball she could throw around, while my husband and I playfully fought over who could get the kite the highest. We had forgotten how fun simple childhood pleasures could be.

De Anza Cove Park is perfect for flying kites. PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

On the short drive back to the hotel, Naomi fell asleep, which I always take as an opportunity to get a mid-afternoon treat. We grabbed an iced coffee for me and an iced matcha latte for Jeremy from one of my favorite San Diego coffee shops, Better Buzz Coffee, and made a little detour to Pacific Beach. My sweet husband waited in the car so that I could sneak in a solo walk down Crystal Pier, a historic wooden pier dotted with quaint 1930s-era cottages with sweeping coastal views.

Located across the bay from The Catamaran, the man-made Vacation Isle is home to a grassy park, sandy beaches and Paradise Point Resort and Spa. We had dinner reservations at Barefoot Bar & Grill, one of the resort’s waterfront restaurants. Our pro server, Jason, handed our daughter an activity sheet, crayons and water cup with a lid and straw, while giving my husband and me his beer recommendations. Decadently lit boats sailed by, part of an annual boat parade of lights, while a couple of musicians set up their equipment on stage in front of us. Our food arrived as local folk duo Nathan & Jessie performed. I watched Naomi groove to the music while seated on Jeremy’s lap.

After dinner, we returned to the Catamaran and walked down to the beach. As we came upon three beach chairs, a basket of blankets and cozy bonfire framed by a set of twinkling string lights, I think all three of us exclaimed, “Wow!” The evening’s enchantments were not over yet. Our host from Bayside Bonfires, available at both the Catamaran and sister property Bahia Resort Hotel, greeted us and explained all the goodies inside our individually wrapped s’mores boxes. We roasted marshmallows and snuggled by the fire, bellies warm from toasted s’mores. It was the perfect way to end an already perfect day.

Roasting marshmallows over our private bonfire on the beach. PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

On our last day in Mission Bay, we made our way to Action Sport Rentals, just a few yards away. With Naomi sandwiched between us on a surrey bike (a four-wheeled pedal powered bicycle), we cruised along the bayside path past families, joggers and other bikers all taking in the quintessential San Diego weather. About a half mile into our ride, we spotted a picturesque little park with a playground overlooking Mission Bay. Jeremy and I sat on a bench while Naomi made new friends, climbed the dolphin statues and searched for treasures in the sand.

We had one more meal to enjoy before heading back to reality, and we knew just the place. Oscars Mexican Seafood in Pacific Beach is one of those worth-the-wait local joints. Last visit, when I was unknowingly pregnant, we got the smoked fish tacos, and we’ve been talking about them ever since. Oscars expanded their small outdoor eating area, so we were able to grab a seat at the makeshift counter to enjoy our final meal.

No one wanted to go home, of course, but now that we know San Diego can be just as fun (and delicious) as it was pre-kid, we have no excuse not to return. And sharing Mission Bay together as a family “is so beautiful.”

Nina Harada is Digital Editor for L.A. Parent.

Utah Road Trip

Published

By Elisa Parhad

Welcome to Utah sign. PHOTO BY ELISA PARHAD

The sign read “Mystic Hot Springs” next to a chain that blocked access to a dirt road leading toward the hills in Monroe, Utah. We parked next to a line of tired buses faded from a life on the road and now resting dormant under the incessant sun. 

“Next time we can stay in one of those,” I said as I doled out swimsuits, goggles and towels to my husband and kids. I got no answer. I remembered that my sons don’t know what a Grateful Dead bus is, nor how far out it is that you can stay in one.

Meanwhile, my husband was watching a gaggle of peacocks scramble out of some bushes. It was a sign: Our road trip to Utah was about to get a lot weirder.

Getting soaked

On top of the hill sits seven bathtubs that capture hot, mineral rich water from the nearby springs. The tubs are engulfed in red-orange mineral deposits, just waiting for a soak. The owner, “Mystic Mike,” a self-described Deadhead, diverts water spilling into the tubs from flowing channels in the mountainous deposits above. The temperature of my tub water was perfect, and the views past my toes looked out onto central Utah’s majestic Sevier Valley.

Elisa Parhad’s sons take a soak in mineral-rich spring water. PHOTO BY ELISA PARHAD

We eventually moved out of our own separate — and very hippie — paradises and into the large concrete pools below. The scene there had me wondering if we’d stumbled upon a lost Burning Man project. The main pool is connected above to a large, rust colored arch — calcium carbonate deposits gone wild. This is what we have come for — something new to marvel over, an experience we haven’t done, or even heard of, before. As happens with familiarity, our fully-explored backyard destinations — Palm Springs, San Diego and the Central Coast — have lost their magic. Each one is a beloved destination, certainly, but this corner of Utah (which is the same driving distance as the Bay Area from L.A.) is our new chosen flavor. 

As tempting as the Grateful Dead buses were, we were Midway bound, a small Swiss-style enclave in the Wasatch Mountains between the better-known resort towns of Sundance and Park City. Aside from what was sure to be stunning scenery, we were heading to another hot-water anomaly: the Crater at Homestead Resort. This beehive-shaped limestone formation is an underground geothermal pool 10,000 years in the making and one of the reasons there is a town here in the first place.

Homestead Resort in Midway, Utah. PHOTO COURTESY HOMESTEAD RESORT

Passing quaint alpine chalets on our way, we pulled up to the expansive, rustic property and immediately saw the looming hump in the ground dwarfing the grand, historic entrance of the Homestead Resort. Coffee and fudge waited for us inside the airy lobby, something I should have expected from a place once known as Schneitter’s Hot Pot resort, which has been honing hospitality for nearly 200 years. As soon as we settled into our modern and roomy farmhouse-style room, we donned our suits.

The Crater is accessed by a door in the side of the hill, which allowed us the convenience of not having to rappel our way down into the pool as earlier visitors have had to do. The evening darkness added a veil of mystery. Steam rushed toward us as we opened the door. We followed a tunnel that led to a spot where visitors can swim, snorkel, take a paddle board yoga class, soak or scuba dive in the only warm water diving destination in the continental U.S. We walked past diving equipment and scuba gear to get to a small dock where we gently let ourselves into the mystifyingly warm and tranquil water. 

Snowboarding history and neighborhood charm

The next day in nearby Park City, we were belly laughing at the ridiculous ski fashions of the 1980s. “Who would wear that?” my 12-year-old son exclaimed at a pink women’s ensemble on display at the Alf Engen Ski Museum inside Utah Olympic Park, where Utah hosted the 2002 XIX Olympic Winter Games. 

His amazement grew at the snowboard evolution display, starting with a snowboard predecessor called the Snurfer. Who knew? Like any good sports venue, Utah Olympic Park is a thrill seeker’s dream. The most adventurous we got was to slip into the bobsled and skeleton equipment in the museum lobby, but the daring are in for a real ride here with a summertime alpine slide course, extreme tubing, extreme zip line, airbag jumping and — for bucket listers — the ability to attempt the bobsled (available summer and winter for riders ages 16+).

Instead, we barreled towards Salt Lake City on I-80. Our first stop was Liberty Park, a charming neighborhood near the trendy 9th and 9th intersection, known for bungalow homes, tree-lined streets and plenty of front lawn support for LGBTQ+ and Black Lives Matter movements. The homey feel and location make the neighborhood the perfect basecamp for exploring this vibrant city. Much like L.A., this is a town of distinct neighborhoods, and we found gems in each: the thickest, smoothest hot chocolate at Hatch Family Chocolates in The Avenues; an enormous and fun-filled park of the same name in Sugar House, and, right at our doorstep in Liberty Park, a delightful children’s bookshop and boutique called  The Children’s Hour Bookstore.

In between neighborhood exploring, we visited the Tracy Aviary & Botanical Garden, This is the Place Heritage Park and the renowned Natural History Museum of Utah, all included in the Visit Salt Lake Connect Pass. For us, a two-day pass provided a wonderful value and no-pressure access to the best of the city (16 attractions total, including guided tours of the Utah Olympic Park). 

Ancestry in Salt Lake City

Hiking in Salt Lake City. PHOTO COURTESY JIM URQUHART

On our final day in Salt Lake City, I learned that there are approximately 54,478 other people in the U.S. who share my surname. This is just a sampling of the zany factoids we discovered at the Family History Library, run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

This five-floor facility is located just off Temple Square, the spiritual center of the faith. On the ground floor, you’ll find seven “discovery experiences,” such as “Where I Come From” or “My Famous Relatives,” each with an information superpower to explore fascinating custom facts about your ancestors. With the help of a volunteer, we signed up for a free FamilySearch account and were given a device that can hook into an interactive screen at the different stations. Turns out, I am a 10th cousin of the friendly volunteer who had been helping us and eight other individuals who had visited the building that day! I’d have never guessed family history was this interesting, weird or fun.

Eyes open for more marvels

With a new sense of self, we headed off to see the Great Salt Lake. This is the last remnant of ancient Lake Bonneville, which once covered about a quarter of Utah. On its southern shores stands a remake of the turn-of-the-century-era Saltair resort, now a concert venue for rock bands.

The Great Salt Lake State Park Visitor Center displays pictures of Victorian bathers in front of this ill-fated “Coney Island of the West,” evoking another time altogether. In contrast, we mostly have the gorgeous views to ourselves as we walk the watery shore and look for brine shrimp at the water’s edge. Child of the ’80s? You might know brine shrimp as Sea-Monkeys, those novelty aquarium pets. A good view of them is at the state park visitor center or at the Natural History Museum in the city proper. While we didn’t come home with Sea-Monkeys, I did snag a $12 box of Taffy Town saltwater taffies, made in the area since 1916. Hands down, it was the best saltwater taffy I’ve ever had. 

As we drove toward Nevada, the landscape was flat and dry, marked by salt-processing operations, smelting stacks and funky art projects. The 87-foot-tall retro sculpture called “Metaphor: The Tree of Utah” by Swedish sculptor Karl Momen looms at the edge of the Bonneville Salt Flats, where speed freaks top speeds of 600 miles per hour. Here, we could see the curve of the earth under a vast, blinding whiteness, and we wondered: What other unexpected marvels await us?

Elisa Parhad is a travel and lifestyle writer, author and photographer based in L.A.

The Traveling Newlyweds Are Now Traveling Parents

Published

By Chelsee Lowe

Travel influencers Alli and Bobby Talley embraced traveling with their toddler Jude. PHOTOS COURTESY ALLI AND BOBBY TALLEY

Beloved travel influencers Alli and Bobby Talley caught the travel bug as young people. Alli traveled abroad often, thanks to her father’s career in international commercial real estate, and Bobby loved road tripping with his parents and brother — he visited all 50 U.S. states by the time he was 16.

The couple dubbed themselves the “traveling newlyweds” once they’d tied the knot, and they began sharing their adventures with friends and family via a blog and eponymous Instagram account: @Traveling_Newlyweds. They quit their jobs in 2018 in order to focus on travel full time, using their growing online audience to highlight destinations near and far from their home base in Costa Mesa. And now, they’re traveling parents, having welcomed son Jude in early 2020 and daughter Reese just four months ago.

I caught up with the new parents recently to talk about traveling with young kids.

Being an expert traveler doesn’t immediately make you an expert at traveling with kids. How did your first trip with Jude go?

Alli: We were so humbled by it. Jude was about four months old, and we were headed to Santa Barbara. We got as far as Calabasas and had to stop — he was losing it. A trip that should have been two and a half hours took us almost six hours. You are at the mercy of your child. If they’re hungry, you stop. If they need to run around, you stop. You learn to really throw any expectations out the window.

How does that sense of flexibility come into play once you arrive at your destination?

Bobby: We are — or we were — such goers. We like to do and see as much as we can when we get somewhere. Even with restaurants, we used to graze. We’d go to one place for drinks, another place for appetizers and so on.

Alli: But with Jude, we thought, “We’ll be lucky if we make it to one restaurant.” Now, we make a list, like, “Top Three Wineries To Visit,” and we just see what happens. Travel may look different now, but that’s okay.

Tell us about a successful weekend getaway you’d recommend to fellow SoCal families.

Bobby: Our favorite getaway with Jude has been to Los Alamos. We stayed at the Skyview Hotel, which has a very cool, laid-back vibe, and it’s so kid-friendly. He loved playing in the pool and we loved the poolside drinks. Many of the wineries nearby welcome kids — our favorite is Demetria — and we all loved the delicious food at Bob’s Well Bread. Highly suggest the eggs benedict; it’s the best!

What other planning strategies help make for a successful family trip?

Alli: We’ve learned to book a room with a patio or somewhere you can escape once the baby goes to sleep.

Bobby: A SlumberPod [privacy tent] is a must for us. We also look out for great playgrounds. We will take the longer route to a destination if it means more amenities like parks and places to eat.

Alli: Pack an iPad, too, and don’t feel bad about it. Whatever helps entertain them! Also, someone once said to always have new toys in your suitcase and diaper bag. We now do this! We go to the dollar store, or the Target dollar section, and buy weird little compact gadgets that might excite Jude. Once, that was a pad of Post-Its, and Jude stuck them on the back of the plane seat for 40 minutes. And pack all kinds of snacks, especially ones they have never tried.

When parents are afraid to go on that next trip with kids, what do you say to them?

Bobby: I would say the best thing to do is just go. Take small steps first — drive just two hours — and see how it goes. Things are bound to happen. Our flight to Alaska was so terrible with Jude that I was dripping in sweat. But it couldn’t get worse from there! And the rest of the trip was priceless.

Alli: Travel with kids is intimidating — and it’s hard. We won’t mince words: We’ve had some of our worst moments in the car or on a plane with Jude. But that’s not what you remember. The memories we have made and the photos we have are priceless. And we have seen Jude’s interest in the world come alive. You’re going to have tantrums and bad moments whether you’re at home or in Alaska. May as well be somewhere beautiful.

To see where Alli, Bobby, Jude and Reese head to next, follow @traveling_newlyweds on Instagram.

Pedal 2 Petal in Carlsbad

Published

By Cassandra Lane

If you’re looking for a great way to brighten your Mother’s Day celebrations, Carlsbad has an array of options for you. The Visit Carlsbad’s Pedal 2 Petal event is approaching its final week as the floral-inspired event ends on May 8.

PHOTOS COURTESY VISIT CARLSBAD

Through this program visitors and locals can experience the floral magic of Carlsbad at The Flower Fields and beyond. Local shops and attractions, culinary and wellness experiences, chefs and mixologists, hotel partners and more have all teamed up to create a variety of floral imbued products, activities, bites and cocktails. Guests are invited to bike (pedal) around the great outdoor resort destination and experience different stops where they can enjoy flower-inspired offerings. By “pedaling to the petals,” visitors have the opportunity to experience all the wonderful ways the city celebrates spring.  We have outlined the floral-inspired experiences below for your reference: 

Hotel offerings

The Omni La Costa Resort & Spa  is offering the “Blooms & Bliss” package, which includes upgraded accommodations featuring a deep soaking tub and private outdoor space, a welcome “care package,” including fresh flowers from Native Poppy, and a $200 resort credit per stay for redemption towards relaxation at the award-winning Spa at La Costa 

The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa and The Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa, will offer packages that include 2 tickets to the Flower Fields and a free 1-hr bike rental/day and free shuttle to and from the Flower Fields (based on availability). 

Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa will offer guests the use of complimentary, beach cruiser bicycles, which can be reserved for their special Pedal 2 Petal adventure.  

The Cassara Carlsbad is offering a “Stay and See Flower Fields Package” that includes 2 tickets to The Flower Fields, an overnight stay at the Cassara Carlsbad overlooking 50 acres of Tecolote Giant Ranunculus, waived parking and free shuttle to Carlsbad Premium Outlets, The Flower Fields and Carlsbad beaches. Valid through May 8. 

Spa options

Ocean Crest Spa at Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa is featuring its brown sugar and lavender scrub and massage.

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Golf Club & Spa is offering a calendula and orange myrtle scrub and massage. 

All the eats

Chandler’s Restaurant at Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa will be serving up Lavender & Lemon cocktails, Lavender Lattes and delectable lemon and lavender dessert bars.  

20 | Twenty Grill at Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa is offering a variety of petal infused libations including its Lavender Blossom Fizz and Hibiscus Sour as well as the Hibiscus Baja Ceviche with local striped bass. 

The Pacific Point lounge at  Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Golf Club & Spa offers an array of floral inspired offers an array of floral-inspired cocktails to celebrate all things spring, including the top selling Lavender Lemon Spritz, the Aviara Blossom (a fruity concoction of Ketel One Botanical Peach and Blossom, aperol, rhubarb bitters, citrus, lavender and ginger) and the Hibiscus Bubbly (rum, hibiscus tea, honey and lemon soda). 

The Carlsbad Cookie Company will set up shop at the farmers market each Wednesday with its ranunculus shortbread cookies made with farm fresh ingredients. From March 1-May 8, code Pedal2Petal gets you 10% off all purchases and orders.  

The Goods Doughnuts: Rose petal & hibiscus donuts; lavender lemonade and lavender lattes

Family fun

Visit the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation Discovery Center and view native flowering plants in their extensive Native Plant Garden. Complete an informative and educational scavenger hunt on the grounds of the Discovery Center looking for native flora and discover the beauty of some of our flowering plants in bloom from March 1st – May 8th, 2022. Those who complete the scavenger hunt, receive 10% off a Pedal 2 Petal t-shirt. 9 a.m – 4 p.m. Monday – Saturday; Sunday Noon – 4 p.m. (*Some closures and restrictions in hours may occur, please check website at aguahedionda.org or call 760-804-1969 for the most up-to-date hours).  

Yoga Your Way will offer a Flower Power stand up paddleboard yoga class every Sunday from March 26-May 8. Participants will be provided flower crowns and bouquets of flowers will be attached to the SUP boards. Fresh hibiscus tea will be served before and after class.  

Pick up a bike

In addition to the various hotel partners offering bikes, visitors can rent rides at:  

·       Pedego Electric Bikes, 2978 Carlsbad Blvd #130, Carlsbad  

·       Beach Vibe Rental and Sales, 505 Oak Ave, Carlsbad 

·       Ride GDS, 390 Oak Ave N, Carlsbad

·       Happy E-Bikes, 5931 Sea Lion Pl. #110 Carlsbad

Guests visiting Carlsbad for Pedal2Petal can browse the destination’s comprehensive listing of all hotels in the city on VisitCarlsbad.com, including luxury resorts, vacation rentals, budget-friendly hotels and more.

San Diego Gears Up for Summer Fun

Published

By Nina Harada

LEGO Ferrari Build and Race opens May 12. PHOTO COURTESY LEGOLAND

Family-friendly San Diego attractions get ready to open their doors for a summer of fun.

LEGOLAND California Resort

A new LEGO Ferrari arrives at LEGOLAND’s newest attraction LEGO Ferrari Build and Race, opening May 12. The interactive attraction gives future builders and car enthusiasts a chance to sit inside the life-size Ferrari F40 made out of more than 358,000 LEGO elements. LEGO Ferrari Build and Race will feature other interactive zones, including a build and test area and digital racetrack for guests to digitally race their own LEGO Ferrari against other cars. legoland.com

Campland on the Bay

Summer fun begins May 27 at Campland by the Bay. PHOTO COURTESY CAMPLAND ON THE BAY

Summer fun is back at San Diego’s family-friendly resort campground, Campland on the Bay, beginning Memorial Day weekend. Campland Rocks, a live entertainment series, returns Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7 p.m., May 27-30. Campers are invited to the Central Park lawn to enjoy live music by Southern California’s top tribute bands. The series continues Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer. Campland’s popular Giant Water Slide, a 27-foot inflatable slide, opens over the holiday weekend and on select days throughout the summer. Guests can also enjoy the resort’s other popular attractions and amenities like arts and crafts, complimentary yoga, Cantina restaurant and watersports rentals. campland.com

Del Mar Racetrack

Del Mar Race Track opens July 22. PHOTO COURTESY DEL MAR RACETRACK

The seaside racetrack welcomes back fans on Opening Day, Friday, July 22 for its 83rd year of racing. This summer will mark a return to full capacity in the grandstand for the first time since 2019. Opening Day will feature long-standing traditions like the Opening Day Hat Contest and high-end stakes racing like the $1000,000 Oceanside Stakes. Other fan favorite events include the Equine Art Show on Aug. 6, Del Mar Wine Fest on Aug. 13 and Del Mar Taco & Beer Festival on Aug. 20. Family Fun Day on Sept. 4 will feature free attractions like face painting and kid-friendly games. Season tickets go on sale Friday, May 13 at 10 a.m. The Del Mar Racetrack will be open July 22 through Sept 11. dmtc.com

Where the Wildflowers Are Part Two: Best Places to See California Wildflowers this Spring

Published

By Nina Harada

A desert bloom overlooks the Desert Garden at Anza-Borrego Desert State park. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

As the largest state park in California, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park protects 600,000 acres of desert terrain. About a three-hour drive south from L.A., it might be worthwhile to make this wildflower destination a weekend trip. Nearby mountain town Julian, known for their apples, or Palm Desert, just an hour drive from the park, would make great home bases. Or, you can camp in the park, which offers designated campsites and free dispersed camping.

Father and daughter pose in front of Ricardo Breceda’s large-scale sculptures.

Beginning in early March, varieties of cactus bloom pink and yellow. Other desert wildflowers include Apricot Mallow, Desert Woolstar and Wild Heliotrope. Since the park is so large, a good place to start is at The Visitor Center where you can watch the short film, “A Year in the Desert,” and walk through the Desert Garden, which provides a glimpse into the vegetation typical to the park. There is a $10 visitor fee at this entrance. However, the park has other entry points that do not require a fee.

On your way in or out of the park, you must visit Ricardo Breceda’s art gallery, an outdoor gallery featuring the artist’s larger-than-life metal sculptures. Kids will love to roam past towering dinosaurs and rows of desert animals, cacti and other sculptures.

Walker Canyon at Lake Elsinore

Walker Canyon during the 2019 Super Bloom.

Many wildflower enthusiasts know that Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is not the only place to immerse yourself in our state flower. About 60 miles southeast of L.A., Walker Canyon at Lake Elsinore is also home to the California poppy. After 2019’s unusual super bloom, which caused thousands of people to visit the poppy fields every weekend, the secret is out. According to the latest wildflower reports, this year will not see a super bloom. However, a more modest bloom is still a possibility.

The Walker Canyon Trail is a 9-mile out and back trail, which is great for hiking, running or general exploring. For more family-friendly activities, visit Lake Elsinore, SoCal’s largest natural, freshwater lake. The 3,000-acre lake offers fishing, kayaking, boating, wind surfing, jet skiing and more.

Wildflower Trail at Diamond Valley Lake

Cactus blooms in Joshua Tree. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

Diamond Valley Lake in Hemet is a man-made reservoir and recreation area, about 90 miles southeast of L.A. The lake and surrounding hills spring into color during wildflower season. Take the Wildflower Trail, an easy 2.1 mile loop trail, to catch glimpses of poppies, lupines, Canterbury bells and other colorful blooms. If you’re up for more of a challenge, try the Lake View Trail by foot or by bike (E-bike rentals are available starting at $35). The 22.7-mile trail wraps around the lake, featuring stunning views of native flowers overlooking the lake. To access the trail, it is $11 for parking and $4 per person trail fee. 

After you’ve chased the wildflowers, spend the rest of the day at Diamond Valley Marina. With an aquatic center, swimming pool, sandy beach, children’s play area, boat rentals, and fishing, it truly is a place the entire family will enjoy.

Joshua Tree National Park

Just two and a half hours east of L.A., Joshua Tree National Park is a favorite family-friendly weekend getaway. With its many campgrounds, hiking trails and stunning Joshua Trees, it’s a worthwhile trip any time of the year. But in spring, visitors have the chance to see desert flowers like the stunning pink blooms on Engelmann’s hedgehog cactus and beavertail cactus, the greenish yellow blooms of the silver cholla, and the creamy white flowers of the Joshua Tree.

Joshua Tree National Park teamed up with iNaturalist, a free app, to report and record flower observations. Check out the Joshua Tree National Park Wildflower Watch to see where your favorite wildflowers are blooming.

On your way to the park, check out Cactus Mart, a cactus nursery featuring cacti, succulents and other desert plants, in Morongo Valley. You can browse the desert plants, many of which are blooming in spring, say hi to the resident goat and cats and take a piece of the desert home with you.

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch bursting with color. PHOTO BY MARCIE GONZALEZ

From early March through May, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch comes to life with 50 acres of Giant Tecolate Ranunculus flowers. Walk through the fields of pink, apricot, yellow and red blooms, get lost in the sweet smell of sweet pea blossoms of the Sweet Pea Maze, or wander through the Fields’ latest attraction, the 5-acre Sea of Sunflowers, which are set to bloom in April or May. Other family-friendly attractions include a tractor wagon ride, U-pick Blueberries, Butterfly Garden and more.

The stunning rainbow display of flowers (not exactly wildflowers, but just as stunning) is worth the hour and a half drive south of L.A. for a day trip. However, Carlsbad has plenty of family fun to make a road trip out of it. Stay at the The Cassara Carlsbad, which is offering a “Stay and See Flower Fields Package” that includes two tickets to The Flower Fields, an overnight stay, waived parking and free shuttle to the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, beaches and The Flower Fields. While you’re enjoying wildflower season, hop on a bike for Pedal 2 Petal by Visit Carlsbad’s 8-week celebration of all things floral. Download the Pedal2Petal web app to see participating experiences, like floral scavenger hunts at the Agua Hedionda Lagoon, Flower Power stand up paddle board yoga with Yoga Your Way, discounts to local businesses and more.

Agua Hedionda Lagoon will host a floral scavenger hunt as part of Pedal 2 Petal by Visit Carlsbad.

If you missed part one of Where the Wildflowers Are, click here.

Where the Wildflowers Are Part One: Best Places to See Wildflowers this Spring

Published

By Nina Harada

The Carrizo Plain National Monument in full bloom.

I’m always chasing wildflowers. Something about their unpredictability and elusiveness; you never know when exactly they will bloom, but when they do what a sweet, sweet reward. As Californians we’re lucky to have access to so many places to see spring blooms, from state parks to private gardens to hillsides off the highway. Depending on what kind of winter weather conditions California experienced, wildflowers can be hard to pin down. Fortunately, you can keep tabs on the spring blooms through wildflower live streams, hotlines and web reports.

California Poppy Reserve features wildflower updates through its live streams. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park has a Wildflower Hotline (760-767-4684) and web reports. For updates on wildflower viewings at other parks and beyond, Theodore Payne Foundation Wildflower Hotline offers free weekly online and recorded updates, posted Fridays from March through May (818-768-1802, ext. 7).

Whether you and your family want to take a California wildflower road trip or day trip, we’ve rounded up the best places to see wildflowers in the golden state. In part one of our roundup, we included the five best places to see wildflowers north of L.A. Check out part two here.

Carrizo Plain National Monument

This large, enclosed grassland plain in California’s Central Valley offers over 200,000 acres of public land for hiking, camping and wildflower viewing. The Carrizo Plain National Monument features the white alkali flats of Soda Lake, the sandstone rock formation Painted Rock, ridges and ravines created by the San Andreas Fault, which runs along the eastern edge of the Plain, and open grasslands. With enough rainfall during the winter, this unique landscape can create breathtaking views of California native wildflowers blanketing the valley floor.

Stay at roadside resort Cuyama Buckhorn to explore wildflowers of Carrizo Plain National Monument. PHOTO COURTESY CUYAMA BUCKHORN
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is worth the drive. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

The remote monument is a little too far for a day trip from L.A., but New Cuyama, just an hour drive south of the Plains is the perfect home base for your California wildflower road trip. Stay at Cuyama Buckhorn, a 21-room roadside resort originally established in 1952. Today it has a full restaurant, bar, pool, sauna and stylish rooms with vintage touches and modern amenities. Cuyama Buckhorn is celebrating wildflower season with their Wild Flour Celebration from April 8-10. Bring the whole family for a weekend of flowers and flour, from bread making workshops to a pizza party with live music. 

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

An hour and a half drive north of L.A., this state-protected reserve features uninterrupted views of our state flower, California Poppy, from February to May. The best time to visit Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is in April, depending on rain, when the rolling hills are painted a brilliant orange. But there are other wildflower colors, too, like lupine’s deep purple and goldfield’s bright yellow, dotting the hillside.  

Day-use entry is $10 per vehicle and is valid for entry at other California State Parks charging the same or lower rate. Nearby Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park is home to native Joshua Tree and Juniper woodland. The Joshua Trees bloom, too, when conditions are right. Just 30 miles east of the Reserve is Saddle Butte State Park, where you will see more Joshua Trees and different species of wildflowers. There are also hiking trails and picnic tables.

Hungry Valley SVRA

Find California wildflowers at Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area, a 19,000-acre park in Gorman, just south of the Tejon Pass. Located 70 miles north of L.A., this recreation area features poppies, goldfields, lupines, tidy tips and other colorful blooms.

California Poppies paint the top of Figueroa Mountain a brilliant orange.

During wildflower season, take a self-guided tour route that begins at the Visitor Center. The Hungry Valley SVRA Facebook page posts wildflower updates so you can plan your visit. Admission to the park is $5. Located just 30 miles east of the California Poppy Reserve, you could easily visit both fields in the same day.

Figueroa Mountain Recreation Area

Fifty miles north of Santa Barbara, the Figueroa Mountain recreation area features stunning views of the San Rafael Wilderness, the Santa Ynez Valley and wildflowers. In the spring, you might see purple shooting stars, pink pitcher sage, blue lupine and the California poppy.

The recreation area has picnic areas, family campgrounds and hiking trails to explore and enjoy this section of the Los Padres National Forest. Nearby wine-tasting town Los Olivos makes for a great pit-stop or weekend getaway while you’re out here chasing wildflowers. There are plenty of family-friendly wineries throughout the charming town, like Koehler Winery, where you can picnic and visit the resident emus.

Lompoc Flower Fields

Less than a three-hour drive north of L.A., the Lompoc’s Valley of Flowers is another magical place to immerse yourself in spring blooms. Home to both wildflowers and commercial flower growers, you can find pink, purple and blue Stock, Larkspur, Delphinium, Sweet Pea and other verities throughout the rolling hills and fields. The fields rotate every year, so be sure to check the “bloom tracker” to know where to go. 

One of the commercial flower fields in Lompoc.

Lompoc is another great family road trip destination, for its flowers, but also for its wine tasting, art, food and uncrowded beaches. Go wine tasting at large estate vineyards in the hills. Visit Jalama Beach, perfect for surfing, fishing or hiking. Take a self-guided tour to see the Murals of Lompoc throughout Old Town Lompoc, featuring scenes of the city’s history, flower fields and more.

Check out Where the Wildflowers Are Part Two for more places to see SoCal’s wildflowers.

Yosemite Reservations, Events, Updates & More

Published

By Nina Harada

As we enter spring, families are planning their road trips and summer vacations, which often include our beloved national parks. Yosemite National Park is welcoming visitors for its spring and summer seasons with a few updates, changes, new and returning events.

The park will once again require vehicle reservations from May 20 to Sept. 30. Reservations cost $2 per vehicle and are only required during the peak hours of 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. The park is limiting visitation to help manage congestion while several visitor attractions are still closed for repairs this year.

Reservations open March 23 with additional reservations released at 8 a.m., seven days in advance throughout the summer. Make sure to plan and book your reservation through Recreation.gov or call (877) 444-6777. Reservations are not required for in-park overnight guests, wilderness permit holders, regional transit riders, authorized tour companies and anyone entering after 4 p.m. or before 6 a.m.

Know before you go

Yosemite and its over 800 miles of trails remain largely open. However, there are some closures and changes this season.

  • Glacier Point Road and Bridalveil Falls are closed for the Bridalveil Fall Rehabilitation Project
  • No public transportation to or from Glacier Point in 2022; access by foot only, weather permitting
  • Descending the Mist Trail Steps from the top of Vernal Fall is prohibited from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • The Mariposa Grove Shuttle is out of service this season with the expectation to be back in service for summer
  • The Mariposa Grove Arrival Area will have portable toilets and no drinking water

Things to do

There is still plenty to do and see at Yosemite from winter fun to nature-inspired art and more.

  • The Sierra Nevadas often have snow through April for plenty of winter fun like snowshoe hikes, snow play, cross-country skiing, sledding and snowman building
  • Yosemite’s many waterfalls truly wow the senses in springtime, like popular Yosemite Falls and lesser known waterfalls like Ribbon Fall, which is the highest free-leaping fall in North America.
  • Yosemite Renaissance 37 exhibition opens March 18 at Yosemite Gateway Art Center and features art inspired by the park and Sierra Nevada region
  • The Jazz Train returns this spring with appetizers, local libations and a ride on an antique steam train. The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad opens April and Jazz Train events begin May 1.

The Living Desert Lights Up with a Spring Lantern Festival

Published

By Nina Harada

“Glow in the Park: A Spring Lantern Festival” is at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens March 27 – April 29. PHOTOS COURTESY TIANYU ARTS AND CULTURE, INC.

For as long as I can remember my family and I have traded L.A. sun for Palm Springs sun when we wanted a change of pace, but not weather. Our desert neighbors, Palm Springs, Palm Desert and Joshua Tree are truly family friendly as they are just as fun with or without kids. But it took having kids for me to explore all the desert has to offer, like The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens located in Palm Desert. On March 27 The Living Desert is opening a brand-new illuminated experience, “Glow in the Park: A Spring Lantern Festival,” which will run nightly through April 29.

The larger-than-life illuminated experience is produced in partnership with Tianyu Arts and Culture, Inc., the largest Chinese lantern festival producer in North America. The Living Desert will come alive with beautiful, intricate and immersive animal and nature-scape lantern creations representing wild places from around the world. The installations are inspired by universal themes like renewal, friendship and good fortune. “Glow in the Park” will feature traditional, hand-crafted Chinese lanterns, engaging art installations, lighted pathways and plenty of photo opportunities.

“Glow in the Park will be unlike anything we’ve ever had at The Living Desert, and different from other light festivals in Southern California,” said Allen Monroe, CEO/President of The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. “Guests will be able to watch the desert come alive with spectacular installations that are sure to delight those of all ages. We’re excited for everyone to see us in a whole new light.”

“Glow in the Park” will be open nightly, March 27 through April 29 from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and require advanced reservations. The Living Desert is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $17.95 – $29.95. “Glow in the Dark” admission is $16.95 – $24.95. Children under 3 are free.

For more information and timed-entry ticket reservations, visit LivingDesert.org/GlowinthePark

SoCal Day Trip: Ojai

Published

By Elena Epstein

Charm, Oak Trees, Fall Colors, Mountains, Hikes, Bikes & More

A sunny Sunday morning in December just before the hectic schedule of the holidays felt like a perfect day for Ojai. Just an hour drive from our house in the West San Fernando Valley, but a world away from busy malls, freeway congestion and the news.

In this oasis, we found a dreamy golden hour, oak trees decorated with charming lanterns, a majestic Christmas tree with a golf-course and mountain-top backdrop, quaint restaurants and shops, Spanish style archways wrapped in bougainvillea, walking and bike paths and lots of green space for kids to play.

Our first stop was brunch at the Ojai Valley Inn, a historic luxury resort with a family-friendly vibe, centuries-old oak trees and dramatic views of the mountains. The Oak Grill offers all outdoor seating and locally sourced products, many from the resort’s own gardens. The signature Sunday brunch buffet includes classic favorites of French Toast, omelet bar, peppermint bread pudding, fruit, plus a carving station, raw bar and an array of desserts.

On our Sunday visit, bluegrass musicians were performing under one of the towering oaks decorated with charming lanterns and kids were dancing on the grass. Families, couples and friends were gathered around the many fire tables overlooking the golf course and visitors were taking turns taking photos in front of the grand Christmas tree.

After enjoying a leisurely brunch, we headed to the tree-lined walking and bike path that led us from the resort to downtown Ojai. The half-mile walking path felt like we had been transported into a magical storybook as the sun streamed through the trees. Downtown Ojai is filled with little shops, art galleries, restaurants, olive oil and wine-tasting rooms.

Downtown Ojai is also home to Libby Park – a great spot for a picnic and for the kids to play. It’s clean, well-maintained and right in the center of the village. Kids will love the large wooden fort-like structure with treehouse, rock wall, slides, maze, swings and other fun features.

Walking Trail from Ojai Valley to Downtown Ojai, charming shops and Libby Park.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day away from L.A. or a weekend getaway, this charming town has a lot to offer families, couples and friends. There’s a bounty of scenic trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding for all ages, plus food and farms to explore and a variety of spas with a focus on mind and body wellness.

Pick your day and head out to this not-too-far away oasis. Trust me, you will come back rejuvenated.

Dramatic views of the mountains at Ojai Valley Inn.

Last minute holiday getaway ideas in California for families

Published

By Nina Harada

Little River Inn is located in scenic Mendocino County.

With so many great travel destinations in our golden state that are a road trip away, it’s not too late to book a holiday getaway. We’ve highlighted some family-friendly destinations that will get you in a festive mood.

Carlsbad

Closer to L.A. than San Diego, but with the same, beautiful ocean views and laid-back vibe, Carlsbad can be a great last-minute family getaway for the holidays.

The Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa is hosting Fireside Stories with Santa Dec. 9 and 16 at 6:30 p.m. Hotel guests and locals can cozy up in their PJs and sit next to the two fire pits for holiday stories from Santa himself. Grab a s’mores kit and some hot cocoa to complete the experience. Parents looking for some extra holiday cheer can choose the alcohol-infused s’mores and spiked hot cocoa.

Enjoy holiday stories from Santa Claus at The Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa.

For a special holiday dinner with the family, visit the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa on Dec. 8, 15 or 22. Holiday Series with Santa at Bob’s Steak & Chop inside the hotel will feature socially distanced, personalized visits with Santa as well as other surprises throughout the evening.

Let Beach Genie set up a beachside picnic and bonfire.

From Nov. 29 through Dec. 27 marvel at the whimsical Christmas display and gingerbread village at Park Hyatt Aviara. Sign up for the Gingerbread Classes to learn how to create your own gingerbread house from the resort’s expert pastry team. The hotel will also host a Teddy Bear Tea, where each child is asked to bring a teddy bear to be donated to the Ronald McDonald House,and High Tea at the Park, a high tea service featuring holiday themed items.

If you’re looking for a very California holiday experience, Beach Genie’s beachside picnics and bonfires is offering frosty s’mores and a visit from Santa with their luxury beach set up. The Beach Genie set up includes up to six chairs, a fire ring, table with tablecloth for the s’mores fixings, a cooler with non-alcoholic beverages, a paddle ball set and frisbee for up to two hours.

Half Moon Bay

Located about 30 miles south of San Francisco is the coastal city of Half Moon Bay. The Half moon Bay Coastside, a rural seaside community between the Santa Cruz Mountains and Pacific Ocean, is hosting holiday festivities from shopping to dining and more.

The 22nd annual Night of Lights features weekly Friday night festivities like a holiday market along Main St. on Dec. 10 and caroling and live music on Dec. 17.

Support local artisans and get your holiday shopping done at the Holiday Boutique at La Piazza Dec. 18-19. The two-day event will feature jewelry, clothing, original art and more.

Half Moon Bay is lit up for the holidays. PHOTO BY KEVIN HENNEY

If you’re visiting, you might not need to purchase a tree, but Half Moon Bay’s famous Christmas Tree farms are worth a trip, nonetheless. Watch families cut down their own Christmas tree at Santa’s Tree Farm. Stop by on the weekend to browse festive decorations at the Sleigh Bells Gift Shop and catch a ride on the Santa Express.

Catch “The Santaland Diaries” by David Sedaris at the Coastal Repertory Theatre, weekends through Dec. 19. Recommended for ages 16 and up. $24-$32. Get crafty and create your own hand-blown ornament at Half Moon Bay Art Glass. $45 for adults; $40 for ages 12 and under. Grab some holiday treats like Stollen, gingerbread house kits and freshly baked Panetone bread at Moonside Bakery and Café.

Mendocino

About 150 miles north of San Francisco lies the stunning coastal community of Mendocino. Featuring seaside villages, sweet Bed & Breakfasts, beaches, wine tasting and more, the Mendocino coast makes a great addition to your family vacation if you already find yourself in NorCal for the holidays.

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens hosts the annual Festival of Lights from Nov. 26 to Dec. 18. Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights the gardens transform into a glittering oasis with thousands of twinkling lights, a color-changing chameleon, a brilliant white rhino and more. $10 for adults; free for ages 16 and under.

Festival of Lights runs through Dec. 18 at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.
Enjoy ocean views at The Little River Inn in Mendocino.

Family-owned and operated historic resort, The Little River Inn, which features a chef-driven restaurant, a nine-hole golf course, tennis courts and ocean views, is offering winter deals like 25% off any room between now and Christmas with code “winter21.” The family-friendly and pet-friendly resort’s Festival of Lights Package for two includes two nights in an ocean view room, dinner for two at Little River Inn restaurant, admission for two to the Festival of Lights and breakfast for two delivered to the room, available through Dec. 19 with code “lights.” Leave the kids with the in-laws and enjoy a little couple’s getaway with The Wellness Package, which includes a two-night stay in an Ocean View Room, a 90-minute seaweed body scrub and massage for two, admission to the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens and more, available for the month of January.

For more winter travel ideas, check out our guide to Festive NorCal Towns to Visit this Winter.

Cultural Family Travel

Published

By Mimi Slawoff

Bulgarian cousins Mariya and Yordan take Megan and Christina to see a Turkish bath, Roman ruins and the iconic St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia. PHOTO BY MIMI SLAWOFF

As second-generation Bulgarian Americans, my three kids grew up eating Bulgarian food and listening to my parents’ countless stories about the small Balkan country on the Black Sea. But it wasn’t until 2016 that they visited Bulgaria and met their relatives for the first time.

Visiting the country they’d heard bits and pieces about made our family history come alive for them in a deeper way. As a child, I had spent a few summers in Bulgaria and still carried memories of picking raspberries in my maternal grandparents’ backyard, watching my paternal grandfather manage his beekeeping and swimming in the Black Sea. But I hadn’t been back in years, and so was eager to reunite with relatives and share my heritage with my kids. For first-generation Americans like me, and those who immigrate here as children, bringing our kids on cultural trips back home breathes life into family history and creates lasting memories.

Meet the family

Traveling abroad is always exciting, but the best thing about a cultural family trip is spending time with relatives. My kids, who have a small extended family here in the U.S., were excited to meet three generations of their Bulgarian aunts, uncles and cousins.

We stayed with cousins on my dad’s side. They showed us around the capital city of Sofia and its recently excavated Roman ruins. We also visited one of my favorite places — the 10th century Rila Monastery in the Rila mountains. Visiting these historic sites with family made them all the more special.

Some families get an early start discovering their roots. For Tamie and Jean-Michel Cabrera’s daughters – Emilie, 23, and Audrey, 20 – France is practically their second home. Jean-Michel moved from Cannes to the U.S. in 1981, leaving behind his parents, siblings and extended family. He didn’t want them to be strangers to his daughters, so they have visited France nearly every year since the kids were tots.

Emilie and Audrey Cabrera have been visiting their family in France since they were tots. PHOTO BY JEAN-MICHEL CABRERA

“I felt it was important for my two daughters to know their French family and spend time with their cousins. They learned French by immersing themselves with my family,” says Cabrera, who met Tamie, a first-generation Vietnamese, in L.A. “It’s important to know that there is more to life than what we live here and experience. I took them to the cemetery to visit the family graves, another way to grow their roots a little deeper.”

Teaching kids the language of your home country is a good way for them to connect with distant relatives, says Rebecca Bernard, who enrolled her kids, now ages 10 and 12, in a dual-language school in L.A. when they were younger to become fluent in Spanish for their frequent trips to visit family in Costa Rica. “We practice at home, but mostly use the summer cultural heritage trips to solidify the language in an immersive way,” says Bernard, adding they recently returned to their home in L.A. after spending the last year and a half in Costa Rica.

Family stories come alive

My dad, a structural engineer, was a quiet man who occasionally shared stories about herding sheep with his cousin in the tiny village of Runya. When we visited his childhood home, an old farmhouse that looks the same as it did when I was a child, we walked through the orchards where my grandfather once tended buzzing honeycombs. Beekeeping is still a tradition throughout Bulgaria.

Rebecca Bernard and her children visit Costa Rica when they can to see family. PHOTO BY VANESSA BELL

Time has stood still in Runya, where sheep have the right-of-way on cracked roads. On the day we visited, the family emergency was a cow that had fallen into a ditch. With a population of about 31 people, Runya felt like a ghost town.

In contrast, my mom’s hometown of Kableshkovo and the nearby port city of Burgas were lively.

In Kableshkovo, a small village with red-tile-roof homes, we walked with several relatives over cobblestone streets to my mom’s childhood home. Standing in her bedroom, we recalled my mom saying her friends would serenade her outside the window. She would flicker the light in response.

A peek into our ancestors’ past can evoke unexpected emotions. My daughter Megan got teary and hugged me, saying, “I can’t believe we’re standing in the house where Babi grew up.”

Walking down memory lane was also nostalgic for Bernard. On their visits to Costa Rica, she and her children enjoyed exploring their grandfather’s childhood neighborhood. They walked the streets of Limon, where he grew up, and stayed with friends in the Cahuita area where their grandparents were married and their grandmother spent her “cuarentena,” the 40 days when new moms are kept away from crowds. “My dad always tells stories of his childhood — climbing trees, knocking down fresh coconuts for water and all of their crazy adventures navigating adolescence with a father who was the head of school and had eyes all around town,” Bernard says.

Bonding over meals

Mealtimes provide another opportunity to immerse kids in family traditions. In Bulgaria, we feasted on homemade banitsa (filo dough stuffed with feta cheese), sarmi (meat-and-rice-filled grape leaves), kyufteta (seasoned meatballs) and shopska salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and feta cheese).

My kids were pleased to discover they had been raised on authentic Bulgarian cuisine. “I often wondered if Babi’s (Bulgarian) food tastes the same as the food in Bulgaria, and it does,” Christina says.

A trip highlight for us was a big family dinner in a Kableshkovo restaurant filled with good aromas and laughter. We sat at a long table sharing platters of kebabs, chicken, potatoes and shopska salad. My kids had their first sips of rakia, a fruit brandy that’s a staple in Bulgaria. Made from plums or grapes, rakia is so popular that many people make their own. Soon, we were all singing old Bulgarian folk songs that my kids had learned from my parents.

Emilie and Audrey Cabrera practice their French during family meals in Cannes, France. PHOTO BY JEAN-MICHEL CABRERA

Family get-togethers such as these are what kids often treasure most. Emilie Cabrera says that no matter what activities her family enjoys in France, every Sunday is dedicated to family. “This has to be my favorite part of the trip. On Sunday, everyone goes to Aunt Lucette’s house and we spend the day together cooking family recipes. We all sit at the long table outside, all 20 or so of us, and we feast, talk about life and play games,” she says.

Jean-Michel Cabrera, who inherited his mom’s vast recipe collection, says family favorite dishes include fois gras, duck, escargots, pissaladiere (onion tart, a specialty of the south), socca (made with chickpea flour) and pastries such as tarte tropezienne.

Cultivating self-identity

Cultural trips are one of the easiest ways to support developing your child’s identity and reinforcing a strong sense of self, says Bernard, whose kids have a mixed heritage: German American and Afro-Latino-Costa Rican on her side, and African American and Afro-Cuban on their dad’s side. “If you don’t know where you come from or what anchors your values and belief systems, it becomes harder to find that internal compass and really understand the things that make up our characters,” she says.

For similar reasons, Charmaine Wash, a Filipina who moved to the U.S. at age 12, brings her two kids to the Philippines for the immersion experience. Their African American dad’s side of the family lives in the U.S., but Wash’s entire family is in the Philippines. When Wash and her children visit, they stay with her parents. Her kids have reacted differently to their cultural trips. “My daughter is very Americanized, but my son has adopted the Filipino culture,” says Wash, a media buyer in L.A.

As for my kids, they’re now able to relate better with my mom and share their own stories about Bulgaria. But for them, the journey into this side of their identity has just begun. They can’t wait to visit again.

Mimi Slawoff is a Valencia-based journalist and mother of three adult children. Follow her on Twitter @Mimitravelz and Instagram @Mimitravels.

Halloween-Themed Travel

Published

By Nina Harada

Howl-O-Ween activities at Great Wolf Lodge run Oct. 1 – 31. PHOTO COURTESY GREAT WOLF LODGE

If you’re looking to travel beyond your neighborhood for spooky family-fun, try one of these themed travel itineraries that will take you from land to spooky sea.

Disney ships transform into a ghoulish wonderland during Halloween on the High Seas cruises. Each ship boasts its own signature Pumpkin Tree. PHOTO BY KENT PHILLIPS

Howl-O-Ween at Great Wolf Lodge has a slew of spook-tacular things to do Oct. 1 – 31. From Halloween-themed yoga classes to a Trick-or-Treat trail inside the lodge, little ones are sure to have fun during their stay. Other events include a Monster Bash Dance Party, Boo Bingo and Halloween-themed grab-n-go crafts. Great Wolf Lodge has everything you need for a mini family vacation, including multiple dining options, indoor water park, arcade and themed-suites to relax after a fun-filled day. Great Wolf Lodge is located at 12681 Harbor Blvd, Garden Grove, CA 92840.

Disney offers many ways to celebrate Halloween, from their Oogie Boogie Bash Halloween Party and overall Halloween makeover at Disneyland Park, and an entire Halloween-themed cruise trip for a truly unique fall travel experience. Set sail on Disney Cruise Line to the Baja Peninsula from San Diego. Delight in bewitching décor and not-so-scary activities like Mickey’s Mouse-querade costume party, fireworks display, movie screenings and more. Halloween on the High Seas departs from Port of San Diego located at 1140 N. Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101. 

Skypark at Santa’s Village offers an unlikely place for goblins and ghouls. Pumpkin in the Pines transforms Skypark at Santa’s Village weekends Oct. 9 – 31 for family-friendly fall fun. The Lake Arrowhead adventure park will feature a Monster Mash Light Show, Fantom Forest haunted hike, Sleepy Hollow Puppet Show and a community sponsored trick-or-treat event and costume party. Skypark at Santa’s Village is located at 28950 CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385.

Spooky seaside experiences like a self-guided nature walk at Terranea Resort. PHOTO COURTESY TERRANEA RESORT

Take a spooky seaside escape at Terranea Resort, featuring a variety of Halloween-themed experiences throughout the month of October. Practice the unique sport of archery with zombies and pumpkins at Aaahh-Archery, for ages 6 and up, enjoy Spooky Stories and sweet treats from sea beans at pointe discovery or take a self-guided nature walk to Point Vicente Lighthouse, keeping your eyes peeled for the phantom Lady in the Light. Other family-friendly fun includes mini pumpkin painting at Halloween Kids Club for ages 4 – 10 and a complimentary Halloween-themed putting experience with festive obstacles for ages 6 and up. Terranea Resort is located at 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275.

For more spooky fun ideas, check out our Halloween guide.

SoCal Day Trip: Catalina Island

Published

Nina Harada

L.A. Parent digital editor Nina Harada makes some new memories at Catalina Island with her family. PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

The first time I went to Catalina Island was for my high school senior retreat. We sailed to the island, participated in some team building exercises and slept on the boat. I’m sure it was fun but, honestly, all I remember is I had just broken up with my boyfriend. So. Much. Drama. Remember those days? My second trip was with an ex over a decade ago. Needless to say, I was well overdue for a fresh, new experience of the island! My husband and I both celebrate June birthdays, so we decided to make an event out of it and took a day trip to Catalina with our two-year-old daughter. Her first time on a boat. My husband’s first time to Catalina. And it was a BLAST. Third time’s the charm, right?

There is plenty to do on the island for an entire weekend getaway, which we certainly plan to do soon. But, if you’re looking for a day trip, perhaps our little birthday outing can serve as inspiration.

Things to Do

Grab a coffee and breakfast from Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co. This local café features sweet treats like the “best cinnamon roll ever” and savory specialties like frittatas and breakfast burritos. We opted for the biscuit breakfast sandwich and it didn’t disappoint. There is a cute courtyard with plenty of seating to enjoy your breakfast outdoors.

Our whole family enjoyed the golf cart ride. PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

Rent a golf cart and take a self-guided tour of the island. The preferred method of transportation is by golf cart. There are plenty of scenic overlooks to stop and snap a selfie throughout the drive. This was an absolute hit with our daughter, as she was able to ride along in the special toddler seat they can install upon request. She still asks to ride in the “golf club.” There are a few golf cart rental companies just a few yards from the dock.

Getting a workout climbing the many steps to the top of Wrigley Memorial. PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

Tour Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, which you can access by golf cart, bike or a 30-minute walk up Avalon Canyon from town center. The monument honors William Wrigley Jr, of chewing gum fame, who had a vision to create a “playground for all” on Catalina Island. Take in the garden’s desert plant collection as you walk up the hill to the monument, which features stunning views from the top. Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden is open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and veterans and $4 for children ages 5-12 and students. Free for children under 5 and active military and their families.

Cacti lovers like myself will enjoy the desert plant collection at Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Gardens. PHOTO BY NINA HARADA

Visit the galleries at the Catalina Island Museum, featuring exhibitions on the Titanic, the history of the island and more. If you’re catching the last ferry back to Long Beach on a Friday, you might have enough time to check out Catalina Island Museums’ First Friday Films, which features film screenings in their outdoor amphitheater. Catalina Island Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Tickets are $17 for adults, $15 for seniors, military, healthcare workers and students and free for children ages 15 and under.

Catch a film at Catalina Island Museum’s outdoor amphitheater. PHOTO COURTESY LOVE CATALINA ISLAND

Window shop along the scenic main street, Crescent Ave. Our daughter especially loved Wrigley Fountain, which is adorned with authentic Catalina tile. I enjoyed Catalina Island Conservancy’s Trailhead store where I got a couple of souvenirs for my daughter.

Grab lunch or relax in a private cabana at Descanso Beach Club. We’d failed to make a reservation ahead of time, so all the chaise lounges and cabanas were booked. But this just gives us an excuse to return. Located right on the water, just past the iconic Casino, this beachside restaurant and bar lets you enjoy a drink and a bite on the sand. Descanso Beach Club is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m daily.

Reserve a chaise lounge and enjoy the view at Descanso Beach Club. PHOTO COURTESY LOVE CATALINA ISLAND

Travel Tips

  • Make sure to buy your ferry ticket online. Double check which port you are departing from (San Pedro or Long Beach) and arriving at (Two Harbors or Avalon). We took the ferry from Long Beach to Avalon, the main town with more amenities, activities and dining options.
  • When we traveled in June, there was no eating or drinking allowed on the vessel, which made for a very long ride with a toddler. As of this writing, consuming your own food and non-alcoholic beverages is once again allowed. However, masks must be worn when not eating or drinking. This could change again, so come prepared with distractions knowing animal crackers might not be one of them.
  • Grab a seat inside by a window for a more relaxing journey, or a seat outside on the deck for a beautiful, albeit windy, hour-long ride to the island.
  • Reserve a golf cart rental ahead of time. We were a little unprepared and didn’t reserve the cart in advance. The conveniently placed playground, just a few yards from the dock, came in handy as my husband waited for a golf cart to become available.
  • If you bought a roundtrip ticket, but realize you need an earlier return ride because a certain toddler has reached her time limit, you can change your reservation for just $5 per ticket. If you can’t tell, this helped us tremendously!
Hop out of the golf cart for a selfie in front of this iconic view. PHOTO COURTESY NINA HARADA

For more travel ideas check out our family travel section and make some summer memories.

Discover the Secret Butterfly Garden at JW Marriott Anaheim

Published

Nina Harada

PHOTO COURTESY JW MARRIOTT, ANAHEIM RESORT

The JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort is just a stone’s throw away from Disneyland, but you don’t even have to leave the hotel for a one-of-a-kind immersive experience—and this one’s free! Visitors can experience the new Secret Butterfly Garden and digital forest through their smart phone device, which allows them to interact with the garden’s features, for a unique augmented reality experience.

The installation, which received Anaheim Beautiful’s 2020 Art in Public Places highest honor, the Julie Mayer Award, is an extension of the resort’s overall agricultural theme. JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort was designed with Orange County’s diverse agricultural history in mind. The hotel’s entrance features a thin steel sculpture in the form of a harvester planting a seed, which disappears depending on the angle of the viewer. Outside the lobby, a succulent, floral and vegetation garden’s harvest is incorporated into the property’s food and beverage programs. The virtual garden experience reinforces this theme by allowing guests to nurture their own digital trees.

Guests download the Shimé app and venture to the second story rooftop in the JW Garden where three sculptured art installations come to life. A beautifully crafted 70-foot wall is covered in over 600 handmade blue and green titanium butterflies, which change color as the lights change throughout the day.

Shimé app and the virtual installation was designed by L.A. based studio HEAVY as “a mindful interactive art journey that unlocks the artist within for all guests,” explains Chris Nunes, Head of Studio. The app guides guests through the three-piece narrative using the camera on their device to interact with the sculptures. Next, guests are guided through a performative meditation to plant a fantastical tree that takes its color and shape from decisions made during the experience. Once the tree is planted, it recedes into the digital forest where it lives at the hotel forever.

PHOTO COURTESY JW MARRIOTT, ANAHEIM RESORT

Guests can visit the Secret Butterfly Garden for free. The JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort is located at 1775 S. Clementine St., Anaheim.

Live Music Returns to San Diego’s Campland on the Bay

Published

Nina Harada

Summer is in full swing, which means road trips, camping trips and ocean dips. Take a drive down the coast to San Diego’s family friendly RV campground, Campland, to experience all three. Campland offers waterfront RV and tent camping along Mission Bay in San Diego, in addition to a wide range of activities and recreational opportunities like water sports, e-bike rentals, a cantina and, starting last week, live music!

Beach camping at Campland. PHOTO COURTESY CAMPLAND ON THE BAY 

This summer Campland’s popular live music programming “Campland Rocks” returns to Central Park lawn. Through Sept. 4 resort guests can bring a blanket and lawn chairs to enjoy open-air musical performances by top cover bands like Weezer tribute band Geezer and Matchbox Twenty tribute band Matchbox Twenty Too. Concerts are held Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Full lineup can be found here.

Other kid-approved outdoor entertainment includes the new giant water slide, human foosball, and dodgeball. Adults can partake in weekly yoga classes, horseshoe tournaments and bean bag toss matches. Arts and crafts like tie-dye workshops are also available to resort guests.

PHOTO COURTESY CAMPLAND ON THE BAY

If you don’t own an RV, local RV rental arrangements can be made through various rental companies. Guests can also choose to tent camp instead. With close proximity to the San Diego Zoo, Legoland and Sea World, your family won’t run out of things to do.

Campland on the Bay is located at 2211 Pacific Beach Dr., San Diego, 92109.

New and Improved Summer Offerings at Aspen Snowmass

Published

Nina Harada

Looking for a summer getaway full of mountain air, beautiful views and family friendly activities? There is plenty to do at Aspen Snowmass in Colorado with their new and improved trails, programming and events.

Enjoy outdoor dining options this summer at Aspen Snowmass. PHOTO COURTESY ASPEN SKIING COMPANY

Starting Memorial Day weekend, Aspen Snowmass will offer sightseeing on Buttermilk for the very first time. Take the Summit Express lift on weekends through June 20 to enjoy hiking, disc golf, lawn games, breathtaking views of Pyramid peak, and food and drinks at the Cliffhouse. Restaurant.

The Snowmass Bike Park, 26.3-miles of purpose-built downhill trails for entry level to experienced mountain bike riders, will open three new trails including two being built and debuted this summer.

Expanded bike trails at Snowmass Bike Park. PHOTO COURTESY ASPEN SKIING COMPANY
Gondola rides at Aspen Snowmass. PHOTO COURTESY ASPEN SKIING COMPANY

Aspen Snowmass will also launch “Snowmass Bonus Nights” beginning June 30, which include a complimentary Elk Camp Gondola ride, live music on the deck at Elk Camp Restaurant and extended hours at the Snowmass Bike Park Tuesdays through Aug. 11.

Aspen Mountain, which will open July 2, will offer gondola rides on the Silver Queen Gondola, sightseeing, hiking, disc golf, outdoor yoga, music and food and beverage options in the Sundeck restaurant.

Check the Aspen Snowmass website for up to date information on hours of operation, event listings and package deals.

Traveling this Year?

Published

Francesca Page

Francesca Page, a travel journalist, offers insights on traveling in 2021. PHOTO COURTESY FRANCESCA PAGE

Yes, we’re still in a pandemic, but as a travel journalist, life for me over these last 12 months or so never came to a halt. Over the past year, I’ve still had to travel (carefully, of course) — including a handful of times with my family.

Now, we have mastered travel protocol, from everyone’s assigned hand sanitizer to prepacked snacks. For those who have not traveled since the pandemic, anxieties are understandably high, but they need not be. Here’s my lay of the land for families looking to travel.

Call it a comeback

With vaccine distributions on the rise, airports are getting busier. Still, they are nowhere near as crowded as they were before the pandemic.

There are several signs that travel is having a comeback. First, we know that more Americans are intending to travel soon. In fact, those planning to travel or go on vacation in the short term have increased slightly week over week, from 36% to 39% during the first week of March alone. This spring, U.S. airports also saw the highest number of travelers since before the pandemic began.

Technology to the rescue

Technology has helped improve health and safety measures in airports and will continue to do so.

Innovations in technology are also giving travelers the resources they need to make informed decisions, minimize risk and maximize safety while traveling. The installation of High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters on flights, combined with most airports adapting to lessen contact touch points, have made a huge impact in terms of keeping passengers safe —so much so that we know most airlines are now confidently filling the middle seat again.

It is expected that more touchless options will emerge for identity verification. thermal imaging or infrared thermographic systems are set to emerge to enable virtual health screening at airports. 

Travel is having a comeback.

What you can do

You will want to take your own precautions. If you’re planning to travel by plane or car, plan ahead. Have a strategy. Think about exactly where you’re planning to go, how you’re planning to get there and what you will do once you arrive.

If you’re driving, pack snacks for the family, drinks and an emergency roadside kit to minimize stops and reduce contact with others.

If flying, minimize taking off your mask or your children’s masks, clean your and their hands frequently and pack your own food and snacks. No matter your mode of transport, don’t forget your driver’s license, registration and insurance cards. I’ve been known to create a “travel pack” for each member of my family to carry, with face coverings, hand disinfectant (there are cool fun ones for kids now), water and disinfectant wipes.

Check travel insurance updates

Travel insurance has had to adapt to address COVID-19 concerns. During the pandemic, many travel insurance companies added coverage for trip cancelation and medical expenses due to COVID-19.

Many hotels and airlines have updated their change and cancelation policies to be more flexible, and even if your booking was originally nonrefundable, you may be able to get a full refund. In terms of travel insurance, most travel insurance policies do not cover canceled plans due to fears over coronavirus, but they may cover you if you contract it. Again, check with your insurance provider before booking your trip.

Varying rules

Different states have different rules when it comes to travel protocols, and the enforcement of those policies, have varied widely across the country.

Some states allow visitors in without quarantining if they offer proof of a negative test for COVID-19 taken within three days of arrival. But because it takes longer than three days to get results at many testing sites around the country, officials may ask visitors to quarantine until they receive proof of a negative test.

A few states, such as South Carolina, are presenting their quarantine policies as recommendations with no penalties for noncompliance, but other states are far more serious; some, such as Alaska, were threatening fines of up to $25,000 for noncompliance.

Do your research and check before you go, so you don’t end up in hot water.

Stay informed

Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for domestic and international travel.

At the time of this writing in late April, COVID testing was required for international travel.If you travel internationally, in order to return  you’re now required to have a negative COVID test within the last three days.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for domestic and international travel recommends delaying your trip until fully vaccinated. If you are not fully vaccinated and you must travel, follow the CDC’s recommendations for unvaccinated people. In addition, the Federal Aviation Administration is strictly enforcing a zero-tolerance policy toward passengers who cause disturbances on flights, fail to obey flight crew in violation of the FAA’s regulations or engage in conduct that is illegal under federal law. This includes unruly behavior by refusing to wear a mask onboard the plane.

If you are booking way in advance to grab a current deal, keep in mind that some restrictions might change by the time you travel. However, if you are planning to travel internationally in the next few months, make sure you book tests both ends of your trip to avoid getting stuck.

With summer on the horizon hopefully more families will be able to travel and enjoy some down time. With planning and precautions, it’s completely possible.

Francesca Page is a travel and lifestyle journalist and founder of francescapage.com.

Yosemite Travel Update: Reservations Required

Published

Nina Harada

Yosemite National Park is open, however getting in looks a little different than it did before the pandemic. Starting May 21 and continuing through Sept. 30, reservations will temporarily be required for park entry. Unless local public health conditions improve, all vehicles entering the park will need a day-use permit.

Reservations to enter Yosemite National Park will be required starting May 21.

Make sure to plan ahead as some services and facilities are limited inside the park and reservations are limited. If you have a reservation for in-park camping, lodging, or vacation rental you do not need an additional reservation.

Day-use reservations for May, June and July are available online. Reservations for August will be available starting May 5. Each reservation is valid for one vehicle and the occupants of that vehicle for three days.

Since Yosemite is a popular California vacation destination, reservations are taken almost immediately after they’ve been released on recreation.gov. If you want to make sure to snag a spot, create your online account ahead of time and be logged in promptly at 8 a.m. when reservations are released each day. You can also call 877-444-6777 to make a reservation.

Reservations are No Longer Required to Enter Yosemite National Park

Published

Bridalveil Fall viewed from Yosemite Valley PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT YOSEMITE MADERA COUNTY

As of March 1, visitors can pick up an entry pass at the park gate or use an Annual Pass.

Note – some restrictions are still in place and some services are not available. Please also see the FAQ page for more information about visiting the park HERE 

 The Fresno Yosemite International Airport also annouced that beginning April 25, Southwest Airlines will offer daily, non-stop flights from Las Vegas and Denver. The improved access to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks is welcome news for fans of the region.

Upcoming events include the Yosemite Renaissance, which was founded 36 years ago to “motivate artists to develop diverse interpretations of Yosemite and its varied landscapes.” This annual art exhibition will open at the Yosemite Gateway Art Center in Oakhurst and run from March 19 through May 30, 2021. These powerful works will travel to Kings Art Center, Carnegie Arts Center, and onward to the Yosemite Museum in October. For more information on Yosemite Renaissance click HERE.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT YOSEMITE MADERA COUNTY

For more information on Yosemite and Madera County, click HERE.

Family Road Tripping Goes Global

Published

By Christina Elston

family travel

Kids on a FamilyGo trip to Costa Rica hunt for – and learn about – insects. PHOTO COURTESY FAMILYGO

Rebecca Bernard wants your family to go to camp. Together. And bring your passports. Bernard is founder and chief culture officer at FamilyGo, a company offering group travel curated for kids, parents and even grandparents to enjoy together.

Bernard calls her program a “camp on the road.” Groups of families visit a destination, and the children are immersed in local camp programs from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. – giving the adults a chance to explore. Families reconnect at the end of the day. Upcoming trips depart for Costa Rica in June and Spain in July.

The trips are about two-weeks long, a fit for many working parents’ vacation schedules, so parents don’t miss out. “There’s a part of us as parents that wants to play, too,” Bernard says.

But there is plenty of learning as well. In Spain, children and parents alike will have the chance to take language courses and enjoy experiential learning excursions. Bernard says this gives parents a chance to see their kids absorbing a bit of the world, which you miss if you’re just dropping them off in the morning and picking them up at the end of the day. As you ponder your summer, she has three questions for you to consider: “What inspires you? What interests you? How can we change our environment?”

Learn more about FamilyGo and upcoming trips at www.familygoglobal.com.

Flying, Fishing and Disc Golf in Wrightwood

Published

Who needs snow? This year-round destination offers plenty of family adventures.

by Mimi Slawoff

Although best known for the skiing and snowboarding at Mountain High (www.mthigh.com), Wrightwood is a year-round destination with a variety of family-friendly adventures. Hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, ziplining and disc golf are among the fun things to do with kids in this small mountain town about a 90-minute drive from L.A. It doesn’t have a single streetlight.

Let's Go Flying, Fishing

The kid-friendly Grizzly Café offers a comfort-food menu inspired by the owners’ grandchildren. PHOTO BY LEO HORDY

Eat

At the family-run Grizzly Café (1455 California 2; 760-249-6733; www.grizzlycafe.com), inspiration for specialties such as strawberry lemonade and chocolate sundaes comes from owners Leo and Debbie Hordyk’s seven grandchildren.

The extensive comfort-food menu includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, chili, pasta, chicken, steak, fish, desserts and specialty drinks. Customer favorites: Napa chicken salad and tri-tip sandwich. The children’s menu – Grizzly Cubs – satisfies ages 10 and younger with pancakes, chicken tenders, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and corn dogs.

Stay

While Wrightwood boasts the Canyon Creek Inn and a handful of bed-and-breakfast places, most of the places to stay are cozy rental cabins sprinkled throughout residential neighborhoods. To find lodging that best suits your family’s needs, visit the Wrightwood Lodging Association (www.staywrightwood.com). The Wrightwood area also has several campgrounds.

Play

Weather permitting, families may still squeeze in a few days of skiing and snowboarding at Mountain High, which typically stays open through mid-April. But come spring and summer, other amusements take over the forest.

Let's Go Flying, Fishing

Zip-line tours involving rope bridges, trails and rappels let families explore more than 300 acres of Wrightwood from the sky. PHOTO COURTESY NAVITAT CANOPY ADVENTURES

Thrill-seeking families can glide over treetops and scramble along rope bridges on zipline tours spanning more than 300 acres. From March 22 through Nov. 30, Navitat Canopy Adventures (www.navitat.com/wrightwood-ca) operates two high-adventure zipline tours encompassing a series of platforms connected by ziplines, sky and rope ramp bridges, trails and rappels. The 3.5-hour Zipline Canopy Tour ($109-$129) includes eight ziplines, four bridges, two rappels and three short hikes. On the 2.5-hour Mountain View Zipline Tour ($99 per person), offered weekends, participants experience six ziplines, two free-fall rappels and three short hikes. Certified Navitat canopy guides point out wildlife, tree species and distant deserts and mountain ranges. Participants must be at least 10 years old, and weigh between 90 and 250 pounds. Weekend warriors can do both zipline tours in one day for $195 per person.

Those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground can challenge themselves and each other at Mountain High’s Sky High Disc Golf Course (www.mthigh.com/discgolf). The 27-hole course, open May through October, takes players on a 2.5-mile hike through the Angeles National Forest. While playing, keep your eyes open for hawks, deer and other forest creatures. Cost: $7.

Boat lovers can fish or kayak in Jackson Lake (stocked with rainbow trout in spring and summer), and hikers will enjoy the easy, hard-packed path that parallels the highway through town. Trail maps can be found at Mountain Hardware (1390 California 2) and other local businesses. For local history, browse the Wrightwood Museum (on Cedar Street; www.wrightwoodcalifornia.com/village/wrightwood-museum.html), housed in a former firefighter’s station, and the Grassy Hollow Visitor Center (www.grassyhollow.net), open weekends.

Let's Go Flying, Fishing

In warmer weather, Jackson Lake offers a chance for kayaking, fishing – and, yes, wading. PHOTO BY LARISSA NELSON

 

Let’s Go columnist Mimi Slawoff is a mother of three who writes about family fun.

Quiet Ojai Offers Laid-Back Fun Kids Will Love

Published

Let’s Go columnist Mimi Slawoff offers a guide to this quaint town that’s just a short-and-pleasant drive away.

by Mimi Slawoff

Tucked away in a valley 65 miles northwest of Los Angeles, Ojai is easy to miss unless you know about it. With its farms, mom-and-pop boutiques, restaurants and inns – no two alike – this laid-back, picturesque town (population about 7,500) is well worth the pleasant drive. Downtown consists primarily of art galleries, one-of-a-kind shops and locally owned eateries along the main street called the Arcade.

Quiet Ojai

Bocali’s Pizza and Pasta. PHOTO BY MIMI SLAWOFF

Eat
Ojai has many dining options, but among the most kid-friendly is Boccali’s Pizza and Pasta (3277 Ojai-Santa Paula Road; 805-646-6116805-646-6116; www.boccalis.com), a family-owned diner at the edge of town. The menu, built around fresh produce from the owners’ Ojai farm, includes hand-tossed pizzas, pasta and numerous salads. Meat and vegetarian versions of most entrees are available. The children’s menu features smaller portions of spaghetti, ravioli, pizza and pasta. The recipes are handed down from DeWayne Boccali’s grandfather, who moved to California from Lucca, Italy, in 1898. Portions are big and prices are family-friendly. Save room for the delicious strawberry shortcake.

Specialty grocery stores are a good option when planning a picnic to bring on a hike. You can buy meats and cheeses from Westridge Market & Fine Foods (802 E. Ojai Ave.; www.westridgemarket.com) or order sandwiches to go from the deli.

Quiet Ojai

Blue Iguana Inn. PHOTO COURTESY BLUE IGUANA INN

Stay
The southwest/hacienda-style Blue Iguana Inn (11794 N. Ventura Ave.; 805-646-5277805-646-5277; www.blueiguanainn.com) offers comfortable guest rooms and family-size bungalows a few minutes from historic downtown. Unit six is a spacious two-bedroom bungalow with one and one- half baths, a living room, kitchen and private patio. There’s an onsite pool and Jacuzzi, and stays include continental breakfast of bagels, scones, hardboiled eggs, fruit, yogurt, cheese and juice served in the small front office.

If you’re planning a getaway without the kids, consider staying in town at the Su Nido Inn (301 N. Montgomery St.; 805-646-7080805-646-7080; www.sunidoinn.com), walking distance to boutiques, wine bars and restaurants.

Quiet Ojai

Ojai Bike Trail. PHOTO BY MICHAEL MCFADDEN

Play
Ojai is known for its citrus, so take the kids to family-owned Friend’s Ranch (15150 Maricopa Hwy.; 805-646-2871805-646-2871; www.friendsranches.com), where they can pick and sample sweet tangerines, oranges and mandarins. The family lives on the sprawling farm near the Ventura River, surrounded by Los Padres National Forest. The orchard’s season of public tours and special events begins in February. In the packing house, visitors can buy honey, citrus and other fruit grown on the ranch.

A family bike ride along Ojai’s quiet streets or trails is a great way to explore the area. Traditional and electric bikes, kids’ trailers and trail-a-bikes are available to rent from The Mob Shop (110 W. Ojai Ave.; 805-272-8102805-272-8102; www.themobshop.com). Electric bikes are fun because you only use the power boost when needed, like when peddling uphill. Hit the trails on your own or join one of the shop’s guided tours.

Popular hiking trails include the Shelf Road Trail (begins at 1780 Gridley Rd., pick up a map at the Ojai Visitor’s Bureau, 206 N. Signal St.), an easy to moderate path with pretty valley and mountain views.

 

Let’s Go columnist Mimi Slawoff is a mother of three who writes about family fun.

Star Gaze and Off Road In Borrego Springs

Published

Enjoy desert excursions, karaoke, comfort food and other family fun just a three-hour drive away.

by Mimi Slawoff

Borrego Springs, in east San Diego County, is a quiet little town surrounded by the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. In place of fast food chains and big resorts, the main drag, Palm Canyon Drive, boasts mom-and-pop boutiques, art galleries and diners.

Streetlight-free for miles, it is a Certified International Dark Sky Community and at night the sky blooms with stars and constellations. By day – late February through early March – the desert itself blooms with colorful wildflowers and cacti.

From L.A., it’s about a three-hour drive. Stop by the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center on your way to watch a short video, see exhibits of local wildlife, plants and fossils, and stroll the quarter-mile nature trail.

Star Gaze

Carlee’s is a fun place to fuel your family’s rugged desert adventures. PHOTO BY MIMI SLAWOFF

EAT

A local favorite, Carlee’s Place (660 Palm Canyon Dr., 760-767-3262) is a laid-back diner on the main drag, just west of the Christmas Circle roundabout. Billiards, high-backed booths, a juke box, karaoke and a wide selection of comfort food for lunch and dinner make this a good dining option for families after a day of exploring.

Star Gaze

Kids activities at La Casa del Zorro include yoga classes, ping pong, cooking classes, poolside barbecues and stargazing programs. PHOTO BY MIMI SLAWOFF

STAY

Historic La Casa del Zorro (www.lacasadelzorro.com), originally opened in 1937,  offers laid-back luxury with family-friendly rooms and amenities. Choose one of the posh poolside guest rooms and you can practically splash into one of five pools from your private patio. For more space and your own pool, consider one of the resort’s one- to four-bedroom rustic casitas. Landscaped walking paths with bridges cross a stream and lead to the resort’s library, restaurants, fitness center, spa and tennis courts. In summer, family activities include yoga classes, ping pong, cooking classes, poolside barbecues and stargazing programs. Kid-friendly games and contests take place at the main lobby pool.

Star Gaze

PHOTO COURTESY CALIFORNIA OVERLAND DESERT EXCURSIONS

PLAY

• You could explore the desert on your own, but you’ll see and learn more on a guided jeep tour from California Overland Desert Excursions (www.californiaoverland.com). Kids will dig rumbling along rutted roads to dry washes, a dry lake bed, rock formations, slot canyons and palm groves. Two-hour, half-day, all-day and overnight excursions are available, and snacks or lunch are included depending on the tour. Guides make stops to point out mesquite trees, desert willows, plants and wildlife while sharing area history about early settlers (ask about the whiskey-drinking explorers). Kids are welcome to scramble up rocks and hills. Keep your eyes open for black-tailed jackrabbits, kangaroo rats, tarantulas and other desert critters.

• Giant metal mammoth, dinosaur, elephant, sloth and horse sculptures aren’t what you’d expect to see in a remote desert. But at Galleta Meadows Estate (www.galletameadows.com) off Borrego Springs Road on the outskirts of downtown, you’ll find 129 life-size and larger sculptures of prehistoric and imaginary creatures, desert wildlife and historical characters. The newest is a 350-foot long serpent that appears to dip in and out of the desert floor. Crafted by sculptor Ricardo Breceda, the sculptures are easily seen from the street or by driving up to them on dirt roads.

 

Let’s Go columnist Mimi Slawoff is a mother of three who writes about family adventures.

Desert – and Hollywood – Fun In Palm Springs

Published

Time travel to celebrity getaways, take a jeep into the desert and meet the local wildlife on this family getaway.

by Mimi Slawoff

Desert and Hollywood Fun

The Omni Ranch Las Palmas Resort includes a Splashtopia water park so the kids can cool off while you relax. PHOTO BY MIMI SLAWOFF

In the desert about 110 miles east of Los Angeles, Palm Springs is the ancestral home to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, and its serenity was first discovered by Hollywood in the 1920s. It served as a rendezvous spot for Clark Gable and Carole Lombard. Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra and others bought homes there, and today’s stars – including Leonardo DiCaprio and Halle Berry – continue to use it as an escape.

In the last decade, Palm Springs and the surrounding communities of Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Desert Hot Springs, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta and Indio have merged into one destination known as Greater Palm Springs.

On a weekend visit in late September, we stayed at the sprawling Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa (www.rancholaspalmas.com), a congenial family hotel on Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage. Our room, adjacent to Splashtopia water park, had a patio overlooking a golf course. This gave us the option of enjoying gorgeous mountain views from the patio or floating on an inner tube in the lazy river, gazing up at palm trees reaching high into deep blue skies while kids glided down water slides and splashed through water features. Landscaped paths lead to the resort’s restaurants and spa, but complimentary pick-up service in a golf cart is available.

Across from the resort is a shopping center (Michael’s Pizzeria, www.michaelspizzeria.com, is yummy).  Down the street is Sunnylands Center & Gardens (www.sunnylands.org), where late philanthropists Walter and Leonore Annenberg hosted elaborate parties for seven U.S. presidents, the British royal family and Hollywood celebrities. Today it is known as a West Coast “Camp David,” still playing host to U.S. and world leaders, but you can take a tour! Admission to the gardens is free, and tours of the Annenberg residence cost $35 per person. Reservations are required.

With a short drive into downtown Palm Springs, you can do a bit of time traveling. The elegant Circa 59 restaurant (www.psriviera.com), located inside the Riviera Palm Springs (the area’s largest resort when it was built in 1959), oozes Old Hollywood ambiance with oversized crystal chandeliers, retro furnishings and Andy Warhol pop art. Seated in a cozy, red leather upholstered booth with pool views, we contemplated a diverse menu including seafood and meat entrees, burgers, and mac and cheese. The elegant small plates and shareables – including the pulled pork sliders we chose – would work great for kids, too. It’s an interesting place, elegant but not at all stuffy. Though martinis are the signature drink here, the family next to us wore shorts to dinner.

The following day at 8 a.m. we met naturalist guide Carlos Salas and fellow passengers for a three-hour Desert Adventures (www.red-jeep.com) tour to the San Andreas Fault Line. The big red jeep was comfortable and stocked with chilled water bottles, but the bumpy, narrow dirt roads twisting through the rocky canyons made it feel like an Indiana Jones ride. We made several stops, with Carlos guiding us on short walks while talking about local geology and tectonic plates (and why it’s not true that California will slip into the Pacific during the Big One). We drove to the fault line, identifiable by a strip of palm trees along the top.

Desert and Hollywood Fun

On a Desert Adventures jeep tour, columnist Mimi Slawoff got the chance to scramble around Granny Gulch to enjoy the view. PHOTO COURTESY MIMI

At a nearby natural palm oasis with clear water seeping from an underground aquifer, Salas pointed out plants the Cahuilla Indians used for medicine and making sandals, baskets and huts. Navigating winding dirt roads through Fossil Canyon and Granny Gulch, we stopped to hike between unique formations, squeezing through crevices and climbing up steep rocks for panoramic desert, Salton Sea and mountain views.

Back at the hotel, the grown-ups took a break for spa treatments – a pedicure for my mom and a massage for me. Then we drove downtown (abundant with free parking) to visit the Palm Springs Art Museum (www.psmuseum.org), featuring contemporary works as well as classic Western art and an outdoor sculpture garden. At the entrance is a portion of the Palm Springs Walk of Stars, golden palm stars embedded in sidewalks.  Around the corner is a 26-foot Marilyn Monroe statue on display through March.  We grabbed an early dinner at the nearby Kaiser Grille (www.kaisergrille.com), a Palm Springs classic with an outdoor patio and village views.

Up early the next day to beat the heat, we went to The Living Desert (www.livingdesert.org), a 1,080-acre preserve in Palm Desert housing animals from Africa and North America. Trails lead to natural habitats, including a rocky hill for bighorn sheep, and themed desert and butterfly gardens. At the Discovery Center, kids learn about desert life through interactive exhibits.

Our last stop: the popular Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (www.pstramway.com). The 10-minute, 2.5-mile ride begins at 2,643 feet elevation and ends at the Mountain Station at 8,516 feet. The rotating platform ensures everyone gets awesome desert and mountain views. At the top, there are viewing platforms and numerous hiking trails. It’s 30 degrees cooler up there, so bring a light jacket. There’s snow in winter.

After a great weekend away, there was still time for one more treat on the way home: date shakes at the famous Hadley Fruit Orchards (www.hadleyfruitorchards.com) in Cabazon.

 

Let’s Go columnist Mimi Slawoff is a mother of three who writes about family fun.

Escape the City In Big Bear Lake

Published

There’s plenty of off-season family fun to be had at this snow and ski resort. It’s a rejuvenating retreat.

by Mimi Slawoff

Escape the City in Big Bear

A covered pontoon boat offers one of Big Bear’s most family-friendly (and pet-friendly) lake activities. PHOTO COURTESY BIG BEAR MARINA

On a drive to Big Bear Lake shortly after your ascent to the resort begins, the landscape changes dramatically from clogged freeways to mountain vistas, with whiff s of pine drifting in through open car windows.

Fresh mountain air, year-round recreation and diverse culinary options are about a two-hour drive from nearly anywhere in Southern California, making this mountain retreat a rejuvenating destination.

Nestled above 7,000 feet in the San Bernardino National Forest, long before it became a bustling ski resort, Big Bear (named for the grizzlies that once roamed the area) attracted gold prospectors. William Holcomb, a bear hunter, discovered gold flakes in the backcountry in 1860. The gold rush lasted about 15 years.

For my family, Big Bear holds many golden memories. It has been our go-to ski resort for a number of years, and we’ve enjoyed lake activities, hiking, biking and exploring the backcountry since our kids were tots. On recent trips, we’ve brought along our dog, Trooper. The deeper we dig, the more we discover about Big Bear, a laid-back mountain town that is home to 5,019 year-round residents.

The Town

The village’s fudge shop, old-school theaters and whimsical mom-and-pop boutiques are a refreshing change from generic, multi-level malls. Although there are several fast-food joints along Big Bear Boulevard, we prefer dining at the eclectic, independently owned restaurants.

We were pleasantly surprised to find the Himalayan Restaurant (www.himalayanbigbear.com), which serves tasty, authentic Indian and Nepalese dishes. For steak, seafood, pasta, hamburgers and salads, we like Nottinghams (www.nottinghamstavern.com).

Our favorite “hole-in-the-wall” is Grizzly Manor Café (909-866-6226), where there’s oft en a line to get in the door for a plateful of oversized pancakes or a big juicy burger, among other comfort-food selections. The grub is worth the wait.

The Mountain

Snow Summit and Bear Mountain together make up Big Bear Mountain Resorts. Both get packed with skiers and snowboarders in winter, but offer plenty of fun year-round. Mountain biking down Snow Summit is a thrilling adventure. The Scenic Sky Chair, which brings cyclists to the top of Snow Summit, is worth the ride for the views. This past summer, Big Bear unveiled the Snow Summit Adventure Park, a more formal bike park that will continue to expand with additional trails in the near future. The park also features a hiking trail and the Flying Squirrel Zipline.

Beyond the slopes is a forest that invites snowshoeing in winter, and hiking and biking the rest of the year. It was on a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail that we discovered Trooper is a born hiker. Insisting on being the leader, he trotted ahead, sniffing sky-blue and golden-hued wildflowers along a fragrant trail with lake views.

Fall, when green leaves transform into shades of gold and amber, is a spectacular time to visit Big Bear. The Aspen Grove is among the best spots to see fall colors.

The Lake

The seven-mile-long lake is a wondrous sight in winter and a glittering haven for water sports and boating spring through fall. Boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and jet skis are available for rent from local marinas. Our favorite family and pet-friendly lake activity is a canopy-covered pontoon, a roomy, easy-to-maneuver boat with comfortable seating. We pack a picnic and set sail for an afternoon of sunshine and quality family time.

Escape the City in Big Bear

Mountain biking in Snow Summit is a fun option during warmer months. PHOTO COURTESY MIMI SLAWOFF

Guided tours are an enjoyable way to learn about Big Bear’s history from locals. For a laid-back history lesson, cruise around the lake onboard the Miss Liberty Paddlewheel (with shaded upper deck) or the Time Bandit Pirate Ship, complete with swashbuckling pirates and entertainment. For a hands-on experience, grab a paddle on a two-hour Discovery Center (mountainsfoundation.org/big-bear-discovery-center) guided canoe or kayak tour and watch for beavers, great blue herons, ducklings and other wildlife.

A paved path along the lake’s north shore is ideal for walking, biking and perhaps fi nding a secluded picnic spot.

The Back Country

In contrast to the hub of Big Bear, which is as far as many tourists get, is the surrounding pristine wilderness of the national forest. Big Bear Off -Road Adventures (www.off roadadventure.com) offers several tours into the back country where you can see old mine sites and take in panoramic mountain and desert views. Our Holcomb Valley tour took place in February, so the rutt ed roads were slippery with snow and mud – making the bumpy ride inside the all-terrain Pinzgauer even more fun for my kids. The two-hour tour makes several stops for scenic views and photos.

The Calendar

For a fairly small town, Big Bear sure has a lot of big-time events happening throughout the year. The main event taking place in fall is the annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest that spans from mid-September to Oct. 26 at the convention center. Music, dancing, entertainment, contests and German food make this a family-friendly event. New this year is an outdoor stage in the Spaten Bier Garten. Concerts feature a band from Germany.

The Beds

Cabins, inns and rental homes are fairly basic, which is apropos for a rustic mountain town. Within walking distance of the village is the Northwoods Resort (www.northwoodsresort.com), the most contemporary lodging in town. We’ve stayed there twice and like the cozy, lodge-style ambiance. Usually, however, we book a vacation rental with two or more bedrooms and a full kitchen in the Moonridge area, near the ski slopes, through Village Reservations (www.villagereservations.net) or Resort Town Rentals (resortt ownrentals.com). Traveling as a couple? Cozy up at The Inn at Fawnskin (www.fawnskininn.com).

 

For more information about Big Bear Lake, visit www.bigbear.com.

 

Mimi Slawoff, Let’s Go Columnist and mother of three, writes about family travel.

Go Danish or Western in the Santa Ynez Valley

Published

From the quaint town of Solvang to the rustic trails near Alisal Guest Ranch, your family can have a world of fun.

by Mimi Slawoff

Located in northern Santa Barbara County, the Santa Ynez Valley contains six distinctive, rural communities with a total population of about 20,000. The most unique and picturesque is Solvang (Danish for “sunny field”), a Danish community.

Go Danish or Western

The 2013 Danish Maid is 17-year-old Emma Andersen. PHOTO COURTESY SolvangDanishDays.org

Only about 125 miles from L.A., it feels worlds away. And while it’s best known for the charming Danish town, Solvang is also home to the Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, a working cattle ranch offering families Western-themed activities.

September 20-22 is an ideal month to visit because the town celebrates Solvang Danish Days (www.SolvangDanishdays.org). In its 77th year, the event features a torchlight parade, the introduction of the 2013 Danish Maid (17-year-old Emma Andersen), children’s activities, concerts, contests and traditional Danish food.

Solvang

I’ve been visiting Solvang since childhood, and am happy to say that not much has changed – though my husband and I applaud the addition of tasting rooms serving Santa Barbara wines.

A comfortable home base is Solvang Gardens (www.solvanggardens.com), a country-style inn with pretty gardens and water fountains. A complimentary continental breakfast is included. Located two blocks from downtown, it’s just a short walk from Solvang’s shops, galleries, museums and restaurants.

The best way to explore Solvang is on foot. When my kids were little they enjoyed searching for windmills and ornamental storks (considered good luck) atop roofs, shopping for souvenirs in toy stores, playing at Hans Christian Andersen Park and savoring yummy baked goods. Now they’re old enough to appreciate Solvang’s history.

On our last visit we toured the Elverhoj Museum of History & Art (www.elverhoj.org), which contains photographs, artwork and artifacts from Solvang’s early years. Docents demonstrate crafts, such as how lacework was woven in the “old country.”

One of our favorite places still is the Hans Christian Andersen Museum (www.solvangca.com/museum), a cozy two-story venue that doubles as a bookstore with displays of the famous author’s literary works, photographs and letters.

Even if you don’t have a fourth grader, it’s still fascinating to take a self-guided tour through Old Mission Santa Ines, the 19th of California’s 21 missions. This mission has an active church (with English and Spanish-language Masses), gardens, a cemetery and a museum containing artifacts, vestments and artwork.

Dining in Solvang is always a treat. We favor casual eateries that serve traditional Danish fare, such as Solvang Restaurant’s Æbleskivers – pancake balls dusted with powdered sugar and served with raspberry jam. For lunch or dinner we order Frikadeller, tasty meatballs served with mashed potatoes, gravy and red cabbage.

We were pleasantly surprised to learn that the Carivintas Winery tasting room (www.carivintas.com) is kid- and pet-friendly. A youth area with puzzles, games, LEGOS, a computer and big-screen TV keep kids and teens entertained, while canines are pampered with beds and treats. The clean and spacious tasting room has comfortable seating, music, free WiFi and friendly service.

One thing still on our to-do list is to attend a performance at the700-seat open-air Festival Theater.

Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort

About two miles from downtown Solvang families can fish, swim, ride horses and feed barnyard animals. We began bringing our kids to the Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort (www.alisal.com) before they were 7, the minimum age to ride horses on trails, but they were content to feed chickens, pet pigs and help gather eggs (a daily 1 p.m. activity). Swimming, fishing on the ranch’s 100-acre, spring-fed lake and riding in a hay wagon rounded out our days. A children’s program with crafts and movies filled in the gaps.

Go Danish or Western

Kids can saddle up at Allisal Guest Ranch. PHOTO BY GARY KNIGHT

Since then, we’ve returned to ride horses through rolling hills dotted with coast live oaks and grazing cattle. Last April I met up with some gal pals at the ranch, and we rode twice each day and learned to steer cattle and groom horses. We got a little dusty, but it was a good workout!

The ranch also offers golf, tennis, archery, boating, a fitness center and a spa.

After all that activity outdoors, it feels good to change from jeans and boots into something nicer for a gourmet dinner in the Ranch Room. Entrees change daily, but include fish, steak, lamb, chicken and vegetarian dishes.  Breakfast and dinner are included in the Alisal’s daily rate. You can also sign up for a breakfast ride (on horseback or by hay wagon) in the hills. Although this means rising early, the views and hearty breakfast of pancakes, eggs, bacon, tortillas and fruit served outdoors by a fire pit are worth the effort.

By day’s end it feels good to relax in your room on a plush bed surrounded by Western artwork and a wood fireplace, but no phones or TVs.

For the best value, consider an Alisal package. The Round-Up Vacation package – offered Sun.-Thurs., Sept.-May – starts at $515 per day for two adults and includes meals and activities. Kids’ daily rates are $55 for ages 3-5, $85 for ages 6 and older.

 

Let’s Go columnist Mimi Slawoff is a mother of three who writes about family fun.

Hidden Beaches, History and Family Fun in Oxnard and Ventura

Published

Plan a day trip or weekend getaway filled with beaches, music, museums and sports the kids will love.

Published: 08/05/2013

by Mimi Slawoff

Situated between sultry Malibu and posh Santa Barbara, Ventura County is a rather underrated coastal and cultural destination. But sandy beaches, a plethora of recreational activities, year-round festivals and historic districts make Oxnard and Ventura an ideal family day trip or weekend getaway. Ventura is also the gateway to Channel Islands National Park, accessible from Channel Islands Harbor via Island Packers.

Hidden Beaches

Both Oxnard and Ventura offer lovely opportunities for beachside biking as a family. PHOTO COURTESY MIMI SLAWOFF

Oxnard

Once a retreat for actors such as Clark Gable, Charlie Chaplin and John Wayne, Oxnard today is popular for the California Strawberry Festival in May. This unique coastal city is steeped in agricultural roots and home to a diverse ethnic population. That translates to an array of culinary options, bountiful farmers’ markets, multicultural festivals and seasonal events.

Perhaps it’s because the ocean is not visible from the freeway here, but Oxnard’s seven miles of pristine, white sand beaches are surprisingly un-crowded. Don’t spread the word, but locals favor Hollywood Beach, a former celebrity playground. Lifeguards are on duty in summer, and amenities include free street parking, volleyball courts and restrooms. Locals claim Mrs. Olson’s Coffee Hut (117 Los Altos St.) serves the best breakfast potatoes, pumpkin pancakes and crab cakes in town.

Football fans can cheer on players and get tips at the annual Dallas Cowboys Training Camp (www.visitoxnard.com/cowboys) through mid-August. Admission for practice sessions, Kids Zone and activities is free. Parking costs $5.

Other rocking activities include free Concerts by the Sea from 4-6 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 31 at Channel Islands Harbor. Bring a picnic, chairs and blanket. Find more free music at The Heritage Square Summer Concerts (lawn seating is free). Arrive early to stroll through Heritage Square’s early 20th century homes now repurposed into thriving businesses.

Worth a visit is the nearby Carnegie Art Museum (www.carnegieam.org), established in 1906 as the city’s first library by steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. A short walk away is the Gull Wings Children’s Museum (www.gullwings.org), which presents storytelling, art, music and science programs for kids ages 2-12.

Looking for something more active? Be a trendsetter with FootGolf, a sport new to the U.S. and available at the River Ridge Golf Club (www.riverridge-golfclub.com; $10 adults, $5 children), where players kick a soccer ball around a nine- or 18-hole course. Or explore protected coastal wetlands and dunes on bi-monthly hikes with the Nature Conservancy (www.nature.org).

Stay at Embassy Suites Mandalay Bay on Oxnard Beach (805-984-2500), where two-room suites include free breakfast, and you can rent bikes or surreys to ride along a pathway. Or try The Residence Inn Oxnard River Ridge (www.marriott.com/hotels), with full kitchens and complimentary breakfast and afternoon snacks.

While Ventura is a laid-back beach community, it’s also a historic city with cozy shops and a vibrant arts and cultural center. Dining options range from flip-flop-friendly eateries to elegant restaurants. There’s something for every palate and wallet. Getting around town is easier than ever with the free Downtown-Harbor Trolley (www.venturatrolley.com), which began running earlier this summer and travels between the historic downtown and the Ventura Harbor Village, making stops along the way. Catch the trolley from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday during summer. The trolley also transports visitors to the Ventura County Fair in Seaside Park (www.venturacountyfair.org; $11 adults, $8 ages 12 and younger and seniors), an annual event since 1875. This year’s event, themed “Boots, Barns & Banjos,” features carnival rides, entertainment and food through Aug. 11.

Hidden Beaches

Soak up the cool and quirky beach town vibes in Downtown Ventura. PHOTO BY JENNIFER LIVIA

For a Ventura day trip, park your car at Ventura Harbor Village (www.venturaharborvillage.com), the hub of beachside fun with boutiques, restaurants, a carousel and paddle boats. Swim, play and watch boats sail by from Harbor Cove Beach, a scenic spot with small waves and windblown sand dunes. At the Channel Islands National Park Visitors Center, kids can look through a telescope, examine tide pools and learn about the islands’ natural and cultural resources.

Next, hop on the trolley to downtown for a walking tour of Mission San Buenaventura, California’s ninth mission, founded in 1782. Across the street, check out art and artifacts at the Museum of Ventura County (www.venturamuseum.org), where admission is free the first Sunday of each month.

With hungry kids in tow, grab a bite to eat at the downtown Busy Bee Café-Diner (www.busybeecafe.biz), a 1950s-style diner serving burgers, shakes and other kid-pleasing items. Or cap off the day by watching a spectacular California sunset from the 1,620-foot Ventura Pier, built in 1872. A snack bar and full-service seafood restaurant are located there.

If you’re staying over, try the Ventura Beach Marriott (www.marriott.com/hotels), steps from the beach and a coastal walking path.

 

Let’s Go columnist Mimi Slawoff is a mother of three who writes about family fun.

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