Will it be a camel dairy, whale watch, or island zipline day?

Fill up your gas tank and get ready to hit the road. From boardwalk amusement parks to aerial trams, these trip-worthy destinations are just a short drive from LA, and will still get home by bedtime.

Terrannea Resort

Drive Time: 31 miles from DTLA.

Why We Love It:  You don’t need to be an overnight guest to enjoy the gorgeous splendor of this upscale cliffside resort. Sprawled over 102 acres, Terranea is home to a network of walking and hiking trails that snake along the coastline to the rocky shores below (even dogs are allowed!). Non-guests are welcome to explore the grounds—and there are plenty of wide open hills and fields for littles to run around. When you’re hungry, the casual (albeit pricey) Nelson’s restaurant offers upscale bar food with a killer view. There’s also a bakery by the front entrance that sells all sorts of yummy treats the kids will want to devour. Unique day experiences are also available to non-guests, including art classes, archery, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and a private falconry experience.

Insider’s Tip: Stop by the “Falconry Meet and Greet” every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11-11:30 a.m. to meet Terranea’s falconer and learn about how he works with these majestic birds of prey.

100 Terranea Way
Rancho Palos Verdes
Online: Terranea.com

Related: Terranea: LA’s Best Kept Secret

 

Riley’s Farm & Oak Glen

Drive Time: 80 miles from DTLA

Why We Love It: The best time to visit Oak Glen is the fall, when apple season brings hordes of tourists up for a good picking. But the agricultural community of Oak Glen is also home to Riley’s Farm, which not only offers farm activities and U-pick all year long, but also Revolutionary War reenactments, including “Adventures in the Old World” Saturdays, with old-time favorites like archery, tomahawk throwing and corn husk doll-making.

12261 Oak Glen Rd.
Yucaipa
Online: Oakglen.net and Rileysfarm.com

Related: The Best Apple Orchards Near Los Angeles

 

Catalina Island

Elias Shankaji/Unsplash

Drive Time: Boats leave from Long Beach or San Pedro, which is about 25 miles from DTLA

Why We Love It: The boat ride alone is reason enough to cruise over to our nearest island neighbor. The 1-hour crossing is an easy way to spot whales, dolphins, or other sea life—along with a great view of the SoCal coastline. Once you’ve docked, you’ll feel miles away on this little island where bison roam free and zipline tours whisk you over scenic canyons with views of the Pacific. Rent a golf cart to explore the island on your own, or book a jeep tour to see all the off-road splendor the island has to offer.

It’s worth noting that an amazing 88 percent of Catalina Island is still wild and uninhabited, as it was set aside as protected land by the Catalina Island Conservancy. Consequently, the island has more than 62 miles of unspoiled beaches, and the longest publicly accessible stretch of undeveloped coastline left in Southern California.

Related: Your Guide to Visiting Catalina With Kids

 

Griffith Park

Venti Views/Unsplash

Drive Time: 7 miles from DTLA

Why We Love It: Be a tourist in your own town! Griffith Park has enough to offer that you can spend a whole day exploring its 4,210 acres of land (It’s one of the largest urban wilderness parks in the country!). Littles will love whirling around on the historic carousel (and they’ll equally love knowing that this is the spot Walt Disney reportedly came up with the idea for Disneyland). Tiny stargazers will definitely want to see the Griffith Observatory—especially if you have time to see a show in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, one of the largest planetarium domes in the world. You can make a hiking day out of it by parking near the Greek Theatre and taking the one-mile trail up to the observatory; or, there’s plenty of parking at the top as well.

While you may not fit this all into a day, Griffith Park is also home to the 133-acre LA Zoo—as well as Travel Town, where kids can walk around historic trains and get a miniature train ride. Prefer to see the park on horseback? Griffith Park’s Equestrian Center (called The Los Angeles Equestrian Center) offers trail rides for all levels.

4730 Crystal Springs Dr.
Los Angeles
Online: Laparks.org/griffithpark

 

Balboa Village

Drive Time: 47 miles from DTLA.

Why We Love It: With its historic Ferris wheel, bustling eateries, and waterfront charm, Balboa Village is a perfect place to spend a family day. There are bike and boat rentals, a nautical museum, and an old-school candy store specializing in nostalgic sweets. If you have time, hop aboard the ferry to Balboa Island—you might even spot a migrating whale on the way over. And don’t miss the Balboa Fun Zone, which is like a pint-sized Santa Monica Pier with far fewer tourists.

Insider Tip: The area is home to the original frozen banana, so don’t leave without enjoying the delicious chocolate-covered treat. Both Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop and Sugar ‘n Spice claim to be the first purveyors of the dessert on a stick, but the jury’s still out on which spot is the top banana.

600 E. Bay Ave.
Newport Beach
Online: visitnewportbeach.com

 

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Drive Time: 109 miles from DTLA.

Why We Love It: This tram ride feels like a Disneyland ride, only you’re actually going somewhere (besides around and around). Boasting a two-and-a-half mile ascent on a rotating tram car, it’s thrilling enough for kids (and adults) of all ages. And then, of course, there is the destination: Once atop the peak, there are hiking trails to explore, a small history museum, and a restaurant where you can admire the view and grab a bite to eat at Forest View Restaurant—8500 feet above sea level.

Pro Tip: Dress warmly. Temps at the top are often 30-40 degrees cooler than the valley floor. It’s cold enough that even in spring, there may be a little bit of snow on top, even when the weather is warm below so check the forecast before heading up. 

1 Tram Way
Palm Springs
Online: pstramway.com

Related:  If You Want to Spend the Weekend in Palm Springs, Here’s Where to Stay & What to Do

 

San Diego Safari Park

Melissa Heckscher

Drive Time: 110 miles from DTLA

Why We Love It: It’s a tad closer than the San Diego Zoo (a difference of about 30 miles) and is still one of the largest zoos in the county for seeing a whole menagerie of wildlife. Sprawling more than 1,800 acres, the park is home to more than 3,500 animals—plus loads of interesting ways to see them, including by open-air safari truck or during a “Roar & Snore” sleepover at the park. Of course, you can also just let the littles run and see the place on foot (stroller rentals are available if your kids get tired of walking).

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd.
Escondido
Online: sdzsafaripark.org

Relate: If You Want to Spend the Weekend Near the Safari Park, We Recommend Oceanside as Your Home Base

 

Vasquez Rocks

Melissa Heckscher

Drive Time: 43 miles from DTLA.

Why We Love It: It’s like a natural playground! Your little bandits will love scurrying across the many prehistoric rocks that jut up from the ground across this 932-acre park near the town of Agua Dulce. The park—which was named after the infamous bandit Tiburcio Vasquez, who used these rocks to elude capture in the 1800s—features gobs of small and colossus rocks, all of which are fairly easy to climb (though we recommend climbing with them for added safety).

Insider Tip: While you’re in the area, stop by the Agua Dulce Winery (open Wed.-Sun.) to taste the locally-made wine.

10700 W. Escondido Canyon Rd.
Santa Clarita
Online: parks.lacounty.gov/vasquez-rocks

 

Whale Watching Cruises

Drive Time: Varies, depending on where you’re departing from (Dana Point, for example, is about 60 miles from DTLA)

Why We Love It: Living on a coast is good for more than just perennial beach days. Our ocean is teeming with life waiting to be discovered—and taking the kids out for a few hours on the waves means they might get that amazing thrill of spotting migrating whales—plus the resident sea lions, seals, and dolphins that make SoCal waters their year-round home.

When to go: Grey whale season runs from Dec. through Apr.; Blue whale season runs May through Nov.

There are several whale-watching outfits leaving out of LA-area harbors, including larger tour operators like Harbor Breeze Cruises and LA Waterfront, which offer two-story boats for $45 a person (if you book online you’ll save some money!). Or, if you want a more intimate experience, companies such as Captain Dave’s and Newport Coastal Adventures out of Dana Point and Newport Beach offer private trips if you’re willing to pay for the privacy; these tours range from about $71 per person for a Zodiac (up to 20 passengers) to $398 for a private charter (up to 6 people).

 

Oasis Camel Dairy

Don’t worry if you can’t find a sitter because little kids are welcome at these fun restaurants. Let the kids get up and wander around, show them where the playground and sandbox is, or even check them into the supervised playroom so you can actually have a conversation with your company. Oh, and some of these are even breweries and fine restaurants so you’re guaranteed to enjoy your time out and get a delicious meal. Invite your friends out for a night to catch up or finally schedule that date night and head out worry-free knowing that your littles can do what they do. For even more family-friendly hot spots in San Diego, be sure to check out our story on the best spots for family date nights.

Garage Buona Forchetta, Coronado

Buona Forchetta serves up some of the best Italian food from their several locations around town, each with its own ambiance and character. The “Garage” location in Coronado has an outside patio that’s perfect for the kids to get up and down as much as they want and wander over to the cute little car that’s displayed on the patio. Their “Officine” location at Liberty Station in Point Loma has a large grassy area and a small playset for kids to climb on too.

Garage Buona Forchetta
1000 C Ave., Coronado
619-675-0079
Other locations: Point Loma, Southpark, Encinitas and San Marcos
Online: buonaforchettasd.com

Broken Yolk, Carmel Mountain

Play some mini-golf while waiting for those lemon ricotta pancakes, kids’ breakfast dogs or French toast sticks. This newest location in Carmel Mountain is the only one with a mini-golf putting hole and a small arcade inside. They have other locations all over with delicious breakfast & lunch options that will satisfy any hunger pains. 

Broken Yolk in Carmel Mountain
11630 Carmel Mountain Rd., San Diego, 92128
858-675-9655
Online: thebrokenyolkcafe.com

My Yard Live, San Marcos

Take the kids on your next brewery outing and let them play on the playground while you sample some taps. There’s live music, an arcade, and yard games outside too, so everyone will find something entertaining here. The kids' menu has the usuals like cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, grilled cheese, and even pasta marina. Adults should try the pulled pork burrito or the ahi tuna poke; and a fresh lager of course.

Check out our full list of kid-friendly breweries in San Diego here

My Yard Live Beer Co.
288 Rancheros Dr., San Marcos
760-798-0779
Online: myyardlive.com

Atypical Waffle, North Park

Toddler Friendly Restaurants in San Diego Atypical Waffle
Atypical

Wow your kids with waffles while you and some friends catch up! This fun open patio space is cool if your kids eat while standing up or walking around. They’ll love ordering from the converted Airstream and try to grab the space inside the VW Bus tent if you can. Order your Liege waffles any way you want with whipped cream & berries, with yogurt & honey, with cheese and jam, or go savory with bacon & avocado and even add on some chicken nugs to those waffles. They’ve got lots of coffee, lattes and even tea latte options to wash it all down.

Atypical Waffle
3519 30th St., North Park
619-806-0345
Online: atypicalwaffle.square

Point Loma Seafoods

Feast on fresh local catch while you enjoy the gorgeous bay views and the kids will enjoy running around chasing the birds. They have a few outside patios including a rooftop patio with views that will make you stay a little longer for and a ground-level patio with picnic tables. Although this is a casual spot, their food is worth coming here for without or without kids. Kids might like their fish tacos or tuna sandwiches and adults should try one of their 11 different types of seafood cocktails, fresh sushi, crab cakes or a shrimp salad.

Point Loma Seafoods
2805 Emerson St., Point Loma
619-223-1109
Online: pointlomaseafoods.com

Stone Brewing Bistro & Gardens

You’ll want to meet friends here in the gardens at Stone Brewing and tell them to bring the kids. Both locations have unique outdoor settings with beautiful landscaping, trails to wander, waterfalls, koi fish and bocce ball. While they don’t have an extensive menu, kids will love the Gruyere and Cheddar mac & cheese, but you might want to bring something extra for them to eat. Adults will love the double crunch Korean fried chicken sandwich or the chicken tinga tacos; pair it with their tangerine express hazy IPA or the salt & lime lager for a twist. This spot is a great place to bring friends and family visiting from out of town, especially if you want them to deeply consider relocating. 

Stone Brewing Bistro & Gardens
2816 Historic Decatur Rd., Liberty Station
619-269-2100

1999 Citracado Parkway, Escondido
760-294-7866

Online: stonebrewing.com

Crack Shack, Encinitas

If you haven’t tried this SoCal favorite for “Southern California fried chicken and egg fare”, you have no eggs-cuse. Both San Diego locations have outdoor fenced-in areas just for little kiddos to wander off and go play. Parents can enjoy a bite to eat without the worry of making sure the kids are behaving. The Encinitas location has a sandbox and the Little Italy location has cornhole as well. Now for what to order, the kids’ meals include chicken nuggets or grilled cheese and a choice of fries or carrots and a drink. Parents can’t go wrong with one of their 7 signature chicken sandwiches. They also have salads, bowls and even poutine to go along with their beer and wine selection. It's a crackin' good time!

Crack Shack
407 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas
760-230-2968

2266 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy
619-795-3299

Online: crackshack.com

 

Landon’s East Meets West, Escondido

If you can’t find a sitter for your date night, head to Landon’s in San Marcos for their on-site childcare. That’s right, they’ve got a supervised playroom where your kids can read, create and play. Now relax while you and your partner dine in peace and quiet together. Oh and you can also order dinner for your kids to eat in the playroom too. When you check out, you'll return the security tag that matches the one your child will wear. The playroom has an extra cost to use of $8/hr for one child or $12/hr for two, but it’s well worth it and even cheaper than a sitter.

Landon’s East Meets West
1020 W San Marcos Blvd., San Marcos
760-304-4560
Online: landonseastmeetswest.com

RELATED STORIES: 

Date Nights (& Overnights) in San Diego
It’s a Date! 14 Spots for Your Next Family Date Night
Secret Picnic Spots Paired with the Best Nearby Takeout

 

 

When you need a foodie adventure with the kids, hit the streets in search of Seattle’s hottest food trucks. We’ve got the dish on where you’ll find them and the can’t-miss tastes you’ve got to try. Ready, set, eat!

Cycle Dogs

Sharon J. via yelp

Chances are you’ve happened upon Cycle Dogs outside of Peddler Brewing during Babies in Arms Happy Hour night. But if you haven’t, it’s time to make it happen. Cycle dogs serves up vegan hot dogs, burgers and more that heap on flavor without using any meat products at all. Grab a fancy dog for yourself and one with a little less personality for the kids (or not) as a healthy alternative to a common kid staple.

Noteworthy noshable: The Seattle dog (of course!). But if city loyalty doesn’t dictate your diet, try the Elote instead.

Find ‘em: Look for them in the Peddler Brewing Co. brew garden when it’s open.

Online: facebook.com/CycleDogsSeattle/

My Sweet Lil' Cakes

My Sweet Lil' Cakes via yelp

Turn back the clock and dial up your taste buds because My Sweet Lil’ Cakes serves up savory and sweet hotcakes on a stick that are as tasty as they are inventive. It’s hard to miss the tiny orange truck that pops against Seattle’s seasonal grey. And the ‘50s fashion embraced by the owners and staff make everything about this truck beyond charming. In short, this is the full package, parents. Psst… yep they’ve got vegan and vegetarian options too!

Noteworthy noshable: Play it safe with the Seattle Chicken & Waffle or add some zest to your day with the Cornbread Cheddar Jalapeno waffle.

Find ‘em: Follow them online and on Facebook to see where they’ll pop up next.

206-265-3002
Online: mysweetlilcakes.com

Off the Rez

Anita W. via yelp

The flavorful tastes on display at the city’s first (and only) Native food truck were inspired by owner Mark McConnell’s childhood spent on the Blackfeet Rez in Montana. This is where he enjoyed traditional frybread tacos among family and friends. Now he and his partner, Cecilia Rikard, are bringing the tastes of home to the streets of Seattle. A bit on the indulgent side, you can’t go wrong with frybread tacos and burgers. But if you want a lighter fare, quinoa and kale salad also adorn the menu.

Noteworthy noshable: You came for the frybread, so eat the frybread. Pair a veggie chili taco with lemon curd sweet frybread for a “lighter” summer option.

Find ‘em: Grab a bite at one of their regular spots Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays. Families can also follow their Facebook page for pop-ups and on-offs that are just as tasty.

Online: offthereztruck.com

Tat's Truck

Aaron L via yelp

East meets West at Tat’s Truck. The mobile version of this popular Pioneer Square deli, Tat’s serves up Philly style sandwiches that practically teleport your taste buds back to Philly or Jersey, take your pick. Stick with the standard fare when you order for a tried and true classic or spice things up a bit with the daily special. Don’t forget the TastyKakes to complete this culinary experience.

Noteworthy noshable: Try the Turkey Tat’strami. Consider it balanced indulgence in sandwich form.

Find ‘em: They’ll be parked at Hans VW repair in West Seattle on Saturdays this summer. Check their website for changes and hours.

206-583-2133
Online: tatstruck.com

Sugar + Spoon

Sugar Spoon

Because raw egg shouldn’t hold you back, there’s Sugar + Spoon. This food truck serves up raw cookie dough disguised as ice cream and we couldn’t be more smitten with this ingenious pairing that should have happened ages ago. Grab your favorite scoop in a cup or waffle cone (after a healthy meal, of course). We recommend sharing with your minis to avoid imminent sugar rush.

Noteworthy noshable: You can’t go wrong with a scoop of Snickerdoodle, but your kids will probably want Cookie Monster.

Find ‘em: You can find them at their “On the Ave” location with limited hours by texting 425-615-5714. Or track their surrounding-area pop-ups online.

Online: sugarspoondough.com

Where Ya At Matt

Matt U. via yelp

This long-time local food truck fave is still rolling around Seattle serving up tasty Po-Boy’s, jambalaya and hot beignets to loyal fans. Since 2010 chef Matt Lewis has put his personal flair into his food, melding traditional New Orleans flavors with unusual ones, creating new and exciting combos you need in your mouth. Stick with a simple sandwich or add in some sides to share with your crew when you order.

Noteworthy noshable: Try the Creole Pork Po’boy for a change. And don’t forget the beignets!

Find ‘em: WYAM is popping up all over town. Follow them on Facebook to see when the truck will be in your ‘hood.

Online: whereyaatmatt.com

The Ultimate Melt

Charlene W via yelp

Tracking down gooey goodness is part of the parenting package. So add The Ultimate Melt food truck to your ongoing list. It’s your kiddo’s grilled cheese all grown-up, complete with a side of tater tots. You won’t find healthy here, but that’s not the point, right? And consider yourself lucky if they’ve loaded their namesake sandwich onto the truck. It’s a triple decker built with four different kinds of cheese, layered with bacon, tomato, onions and mushrooms.

Noteworthy noshable: We Brie Jammin’ mixes sweet, salty, cheese and bread, need we say more?

Find ‘em: North, south, east and west here’s find out where they’ll pop up next on their website.

425-269-4655
Online: theultimatemelt.com

Bean Fish

Jessalyn P. via yelp

Although we miss seeing them at the Fremont Sunday Market (for now anyway), families can still find this food truck dishing up Japanese comfort food around the Emerald City. When it comes to feeding the kids, we love the packaging of these sweet and savory waffles that are mostly mess-free and hand-held, and the cheeky names don’t hurt either. You’ll find flavorful fillings like Korean kalbi beef, cheese and kimchi (K-pop), or mushrooms, garlic, wasabi peas and cheese (Kinoko Magic), all tucked snugly inside a kitschy fish-shaped waffle. Enticing? Yes, especially for tots.

Noteworthy noshable: The Domo Arigatou, Mr. Roberto should get props for the name alone, but its Mexican meets Japanese flavoring is a great combo. If sweet is what you’re after, try the Crackyaki, an homage to New York’s famed Milk Bar bakery.

Find ‘em: This truck really gets around. Check their website for this month’s locations.

Online: beanfish.net

Buns on Wheels

Scott P via yelp

A burger and fries is always a crowd pleaser. When it comes served on a Macrina-baked brioche bun, topped with Beecher’s cheese and paired with truffle fries, it beats out typical fast food burger fare by a mile. Grabbing one is easy for Eastside families looking for gourmet street food. Don’t like beef? Choose chicken or salmon instead. 

Noteworthy noshable: The Sammy. Wild-caught Alaskan salmon in burger form? Yes, please.

Find ‘em: The truck is parked outside Samena Swim Club (15231 Lake Hills Blvd.) in Bellevue every day. They serve dinner nightly from 5-8 p.m. and lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Fridays.

Online: buns-on-wheels.square.site

—Allison Sutcliffe

 

RELATED STORIES:

Dinner, Quick! Seattle’s Best Meal Delivery Services

Make It Easy: 12 Restaurants Offering Family Meals To-Go

The Dish on Seattle’s Best Restaurants for Families

Where to Scoop Up the Best Ice Cream & Frozen Treats in Seattle