ML Interest Tag: impromptu-picnic

Best Places to Picnic & Play around Boston

by Allison Sutcliffe

We’re in the thick of spring, and with summer just ahead, it’s time to start planning impromptu adventures like picnics and playdates with the kids. So pack up your picnic basket, and gather your gear, these Boston parks offer plenty of grassy spots (some shade too) and kids play areas. You plan the menu, and we’ll map out the places that will keep your kids busy for at least an afternoon. Head to one of the best Boston picnic spots on the next sunny day.

dhanelle via pixabay

Boston Public Garden
It’s no surprise that the first public botanical garden in the country tops our list. What better place to bring your blanket, basket and sense of play than to the Public Garden on a warm spring day. After you’ve had your fill of picnicable goodies, you’ll find plenty of ways to play with the kids. The Public Garden monument walking tour gives everyone a chance to stretch their legs and kids the chance to run around a bit. A ride on the swan boats is always a thrill, equal only to riding the carousel at the Boston Common, just across the way.

Langone Park
This north end park got a facelift last year, and the brand new playground equipment, picnic tables and bocce ball courts make it a great place to eat and play in Boston. Bring your basket full of goodies, and enjoy the water views while you fill your bellies. Be on the lookout for the USS Constitution across the harbor (and maybe walk over to take a tour while you’re at it). It’s also a great spot to teach your kids a bit about the great molasses disaster of 1919. When all is said and done, play basketball or just let the kids run around to get those wiggles out.

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Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
Another patch of green in the dense city, Christopher Columbus Park has unbeatable views on a sunny day thanks to its prime location. You can pack your own lunch or grab something quick to eat from one of the many restaurants in the area. When all is said and done, head to the playground with the kids to burn off some of that after lunch energy. Be sure to smell the sweet roses at the rose garden and make a wish in the fountain before heading home.

Rose Kennedy Greenway
One of the best spots in Boston to have an impromptu picnic (check out the food truck schedule to see what’s cooking), families will find more than a patch of green at this city park. Kids can take a spin on the Greenway Carousel (open daily, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.), splash in a fountain during the summertime or enjoy community events year-round. Plan your picnic around one of the SaturPLAY sessions or when your favorite cornhole team is playing.

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Arnold Arboretum
With over 280 acres to explore, you could stay all day at this vast garden refuge. Free and open to the public year-round, Arnold Arboretum is an oasis to everyone that visits. Pull up a grassy spot anywhere you please to enjoy your lunch. Then it’s time to let the kids explore. They can read a book outside, play wildlife bingo or go on a photo hunt. Once the Visitor Center re-opens, families can one again check out the Discovery Packs and Engineering backpacks that unlock kids imaginations as they experience the garden.

Larz Anderson Park
Expand your picnic plans with grillables and head to Larz Anderson Park in Brookline. The city’s largest park, it’s got all the room your family needs to spread out, play and eat. When the snow flies, it’s a popular sledding spot. But now that spring is here, your kids will enjoy kite flying and hill rolls on the slopes. There’s a playground to occupy little ones, and a pond too. And the nearby Larz Anderson Auto Museum offers up alternative play when you need a change of scenery. This is definitely a destination park for Boston families.

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The Esplanade
Another waterfront park, this Charles River gem has something for everyone. While you can definitely enjoy an afternoon snack at Fiedler Field, taking a seat on the floating docks will give your picnic a different twist. But before you sit down, let the kids explore one of the three playgrounds found here. Balance bikes or scooters are a must, and locals know the Esplanade is also where you’ll find concerts at the Shell and guided tours that give you the inside scoop on the park’s history, art and more.

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Shopping Alfresco: 4 Family-Loved Fleas

by Maria Chambers

Just like dining and playing, shopping is shifting outside for the summer. Flea market season is upon us — and the fun is entirely family friendly. Put on your bargain-hunting hat and plow through antiques, vintage jewelry, furniture and other gems. Your little allowance earner will be tempted to burn his savings on toys, baseball cards, plush animals and even old-fashioned treats like popcorn, fudge and ice cream. Read on to hear about four fleas in Chicago or within an hour’s drive.

photo: 3 French Hens

3 French Hens French Country Market
Several years ago, three women set out to show their neighbors that they didn’t need a passport to enjoy the beauty and treasures of a traditional French market. They created this charming attraction in the streets of Morris, Illinois, about an hour southwest of Chicago. Now run by two of the original hens, the market has a romantic, Euro feel that echoes that look of the historic town it’s located in.

Why parents love it:
The quaint setting is a welcome escape from city life. Market vendors set up booths near the pretty canals that cut through town. It’s the ideal cadre for browsing fine crafts, antiques, baked goods, fresh produce and flowers. For lunch, step back to the early 1900s at Letty Mae’s Tea Room, where hot soups, salads and deli sandwiches are served on vintage china.

Why kids love it:
Vintage toys and plushes keep the small fry eagerly browsing. Take a break in town at Sweet Tooth, an old-fashioned candy store known for its in-house popcorn, fudge and ice cream.

3 French Hens Market
Held the 2nd Saturday of every month, from May through October, from 8 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Free
123 W. Illinois Ave.
Morris, IL
815-513-5600
Online: 3frenchhensmarket.blogspot.com

photo: Kane County Flea Market

Kane County Flea Market
In far west suburban St. Charles, hundreds of vendors spread out on cement paths and grassy knolls, and set up shop in covered sheds. The pastoral setting sets the mood for good, old-fashioned bargain shopping (and haggling, if you’re game for that). Helen Robinson, know by many as the “Queen Flea,” started the market almost 50 years ago. Nearly 5 decades later, it’s still considered among the best of the Midwest and was named one of the top 10 places to shop for antiques by USA Today.

Why parents love it:
Talented sellers like Mark Allen, Urban Farmgirl and Whimsy got their start at Kane County Flea Market and have since gained a mega following in Chicagoland and beyond. You’ll find flowers, garden art, vintage glassware, clothing, tapestries, antique furniture, tools, art and more than the average array of oddities (think yard art made from recycled golf clubs and a recycled bowling alley floor turned into a table).

On your way in, skip Dunkin’ Donuts in favor of Dave’s Coffee Cakes — you can’t go wrong no matter which cake you pick.

Why kids love it:
We hate to mention them twice, but kids love cake, too! And, Dave’s Coffee Cakes will certainly keep the littles happy. Otto’s Corn and Lemonade by the N Trades building offers some of the best freshly squeezed lemonade this side of the Mississippi. Thirst quenched, head to Crackin’ Geodes in the arena building. For $1, your little shopper can select a rock and have it cracked open to marvel at the quartz formations inside.

Kane County Flea Market
Held the 1st Sunday of every month from 7 a.m.- 4 p.m., and the preceding Saturday (March through December) from noon-5 p.m. This market is never cancelled, even during inclement weather.
Cost: $5 for adults; children under 12 are free. Parking is free.
Kane County Fair Grounds
525 S. Randall Rd.
St. Charles, IL
630-377-2252
Online: kanecountyfleamarket.com

photo: Maxwell Street Market

Maxwell Street Market
This iconic open-air market is important to Chicago’s ethnic and musical history. Around for more than 100 years, it was once described as “the Ellis Island of the Midwest” because many new immigrants set up push-cart shops to support their families selling anything they could to survive. When blues musicians played this venue they realized in order to be heard over the noise of the market they needed electric instruments and amplifiers, which led to the birth of the electrified Chicago Blues genre of music. Many believe this sound actually evolved into the creation of rock ‘n’ roll and inspired bands like The Rolling Stones, Led Zepplin and The Beatles.

Why parents love it:
Maxwell Street Market is not a place where you’re going to easily score precious antiques or vintage collectibles; the discoveries are more on par with those of a massive rummage sale. But you will find fresh produce, purses, perfume, jewelry, clothing, bikes and various household products at deeply discounted prices. Live music is still a prevalent component of this market.

The stars of Maxwell Street Market are the food vendors who sell some of the most authentic ethnic foods available anywhere in Chicago.

Why kids love it:
Swing by the XOCO Churro Truck for Rick Bayless’ famous creme-filled churros. For an inexpensive lunch, grab a queso quesadilla with handmade tortillas from Rubi’s and horchata (a traditional Mexican sweet rice drink) and have an impromptu picnic. The summer kickoff, held May 14, will include live music and loads of activities for the stroller-set.

Maxwell Street Market
Held every Sunday, year ’round, from 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Free (Be sure to bring cash because most vendors don’t accept anything but the green stuff.)
800 S. Des Plaines
Chicago, IL
312-745-4676
Online: maxwellstreetmarket.us

photo: Randolph Street Market

Randolph Street Market
One weekend a month you can soak up 300 eclectic market vendors in what is described as the “Mecca of Cool” by its fans. Clearly, the distinction is because of the urban energy and vibe. A favorite of well-known local designers and decorators, Randolph Street Market harbors art, fashion, jewelry, antiques, food, drinks and live music.

Why parents love it:
When you’re in the mood for city energy, rather than country calm, head here. The selection is boundless and includes ethnic crafts at the Global Goods Bazaar, the Fancy Food Market that features chocolates, cakes, breads, spices, oils and salsa to-go, a Vinyl Depot with thousands of collectable records and accessories from virtually every decade and style. For purchases of more than $200, the market offers free or discounted delivery service to downtown locations, so you can avoid strapping big finds to your baby buggy. Oh, and don’t miss the incredible food vendors.

Why kids love it:
New for the 2017 season, Randolph Street Market is introducing a monthly Kids FunFair and Pirate Arcade. Young shoppers can enjoy a day of pirate-themed carnival games and a petting zoo. While you hunt for finds, they can go looting at the front gate for a treasure map and activity sheet so they can explore and engage in the market right alongside you. At the end, they hand in their completed sheet at the Pirate Arcade and pick a prize from the treasure chest, as well as snag a goody bag filled with bubbles, crayons and more.

Add to the adventure by taking the free Michigan Avenue trolley from Water Tower Pumping Station, which runs, May-September, every hour from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and returns every hour from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Randolph Street Market
Held the last full weekend of each month from May through November, and also December 15 & 16, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: Adult general admission is $10 at the gate; $8 purchased online. Valet parking is available for $10. Children under 12 are free.
47 W. Division St.
Chicago, IL
312-666-1200
Online: randolphstreetmarket.com

Where’s your favorite place to bargain hunt with the kids?

— Maria Chambers

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Rain or Shine: Make the Most of a Gig Harbor Daycation

by Allison Sutcliffe

If these unexpectedly sunshiny days have you dreaming of summer vacation, it’s time to sneak away with your crew for an impromptu daycation. And we’ve got just the spot for when Seattle’s doing its indecisive rain again, sun again dance, so you can go whenever the mood stirkes. No matter what Mother Nature has planned, Gig Harbor’s got you covered.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

When the Sun is Out

Explore the Harbor
Gig Harbor’s historic downtown waterfront should be the first stop on your day trip. When the weather’s nice it sets just the right vacay vibe for your family outing. The main drag stretches for about a mile, and it’s packed with noteworthy nosh spots, shops worth a peek, grassy parks and public docks where you and your mini can check out all the seaworthy vessels tied up for the day. We love that kid-sized lifejackets are available in kiosks on the public docks. It makes for super safe boat viewing with your Little. Parking at the waterfront is free and usually pretty easy to find, even on weekends, before the floodgates open after Memorial Day. But even then, the trolley is a great way to head downtown without inducing a parking headache. It’s just a buck per person to ride the whole day!

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

To really dig into Gig Harbor’s history, check out Harbor WildWatch’s free Waterfront Walking Tour. Starting June 11, and running through September, the tour group meets up at the Maritime Pier each Saturday a little before 10 a.m. Along the way you and your crew will learn about the founding families, Gig Harbor’s pioneering industries, and the different wildlife and natural resources of the area from two expert guides. Psst… we hear there might be a ghost story to two throw in, too! Expect the tour to last about two hours, and definitely bring a stroller or carrier for your wee one. The walk is a super easy one mile, give or take, along the sidewalk. So be sure to slip on your walking shoes and slap on the sunscreen before you go!

photo: Harbor WildWatch

The waterfront farmer’s market opens just after Memorial Day weekend. If your daycay falls on a weekday, this is a good one to check out, too. It runs from 3 p.m.-7 p.m. on Thursdays in Skansie Brothers Park and its focus is local, sustainable produce and products. While mom and dad are busy scoping the scene and picking some choice eats for an impromptu picnic (we suggest taking one to Donkey Creek Park), curious cuties can step up to Harbor WildWatch’s touch tanks, which are always out at the farmers market. It’s a neat twist to the everyday farmer’s market experience.

 photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Beachcomb Along the Shore
The thing to know about Gig Harbor beaches is that they are nothing without the tides. At low tide, walkable shorelines stretch as far as the eye can see and as far as your mini me can walk. But at high tide, the beaches are closer to rocky patches with glorious views than they are to useable shoreline. So be sure to check the tide charts before you hit one of these local faves.

Kopachuck State Park
This state park has lots to offer on a sunny day. There are a few trails that meander through the forest, all easy walks more than big hikes. And most dump out onto the beach that looks out to Cutts Island, the Olympics and the Key Peninsula. Along the public stretch, the tot lot will find sand dollars heaped in piles, crabs cruising around clam shell graveyards and even natural deposits of clay when the tide is out. It’s a place where locals bring inner tubes and floating rafts to wade in the water close to shore. The beach itself is pretty rocky, but there are plenty of sea worn logs to sit on and picnic benches set back in the trees where you can easily lay out a snack buffet for hungry kiddos. Don’t forget your Discover Pass if you want to check out this beach!

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

If you plan it right, you can catch up with a Harbor WildWatch low-tide Beach Walk at Kopachuck. These hour-long programs at area beaches are a great way for families to learn about Puget Sound habitats, the animals that live in them and even beach etiquette around our home waters. It’s a chance to literally and figuratively get your feet wet with staff members and volunteers who really know their stuff when it comes to the critters that call the PNW home. Pack or wear boots for this one and bring sunscreen and a water bottle to stay hydrated on sunny days! And even if the sun’s not shinning, give this one a chance. Fewer people on grey or rainy days means more time to ask questions and interact with the knowledgeable guides. So come armed with questions and curiosity!

photo: Harbor WildWatch

Narrows Beach
After crossing the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, it’s cool to take curious cuties to see it up close. And Narrows Beach has the best vantage to check out these massive structures. There are a few permanent binocular stations down by the beach, but wandering down the shoreline to check them out is equally as impressive. Narrows Beach is also a sandy spot that makes for great sandcastle building and waterway digging on a sunny day during low tide. So pack plenty of sand toys, the beach blanket and snacks to set up camp on a warm spring day. And keep your eyes peeled for orcas or grey whales making their way down south. It’s easy to spot them, if they’re there, in this narrow passage

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Fox Island Fishing Pier
If you and your sidekick are feeling adventurous, make your way over the Fox Island Bridge to the fishing pier to reel in the big one. If the fish are biting, this is where you’ll find them, so come prepared to catch something. If they aren’t, you can still enjoy the view and the shoreline that’s accessible near the top of the parking lot. There are picnic benches here too, so you can pack a lunch and watch the trains roll by along the Tacoma shoreline, opposite the pier. This is an out of the way park, so it’s often quiet and not too busy, a nice alternative when you’re looking to really get away.

 photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Make Waves on the Playground
If the kiddos need to climb, slide and swing, Gig Harbor has two playgrounds that should do the trick. Downtown, kidlets can burn some extra energy in the Maritime PlayZone at Crescent Creek Park that sits above the creek restoration project. This cute playspace has tot lot written all over it, with a large climbable boat, complete with maritime seek and find; itty bitty swings; and a sandpit perfect for digging in. It’s also got a sunny grassy patch for picnicking or kicking around a soccer ball. And the covered shelter makes interesting snooping for the tot lot who are sure to be wowed by the old stoves and fireplaces there.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

On the north end of town, Sehmel Homestead Park is where the action’s at. The playground itself is ready to take on whatever your kidlet can dish out. It’s got plenty of bridges to cross, slides to race down, and an intriguing motion platform you won’t find anywhere else. There are also sports courts for ball play and a few easy trails that weave around the 98-acre park. If your little one has a green thumb, check out the master garden on the property. You can wander through to see what’s growing any time of the year on Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. or on second Saturdays at 10 a.m. starting in April.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe 

When the Rain Returns

Harbor History Museum
Even if you and your Littles aren’t taking refuge from the rain, the Harbor History Museum downtown is worth a visit. It’s surprisingly engaging for such a small museum. And what you think will keep your kiddos interested for about an hour, is really closer to two. Start out back at the Shenandoah, a huge ship that’ll dwarf your minis that’s currently being restored. The area to wander through isn’t that large, but it has intriguing nooks and crannies your kidlets will want to explore. Out here there’s also a little dinghy with a sail to hoist. As simple as it seems, this is one kiddos love to do over and over and over again. After they’ve had their fill of the shipyard, check out the Midway School House, also out back. It’s a restored one-room school house complete with desks, books, chalkboards and more. Your little learners will love checking out this old school classroom.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Indoors there’s a permanent exhibit that chronicles the history and growth of this small town. Here, your kidlet will find tons of hands-on activities to do while you check out the displays. There’s an old concertina that makes music, a boat to row, stereoscopic photos to flip through and a few crayon rubbing stations to keep your sidekick totally engaged. Just reading about the many items on display will give any visitor a great overview of the area. But if you’re looking for something more in-depth, check out a set of headphones at the Welcome Desk. The audio program really dives in and takes close to two hours to complete. Here’s where you’ll also find a Gallery Games backpack to check out for your mini me. It’s got bingo, knot tying and a seek-and-find game to keep them guessing as they wander through the museum.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

The current traveling exhibit, 50 Years of Fitting In, about women’s changing fashion trends, just opened in April and will at the museum until July 17, 2016. For fashionistas of all ages it’s a fun romp. There’s a great little school room section where kiddos can play dress up of the old school variety. And then sit in desks to color or complete some connect the dot activities set out to keep them busy while parents peruse the dresses, bathing suits and outfits being highlighted. This is one place you need to watch little hands, as nothing is behind glass, and all the displays are oh-so-inviting to touch.

Java and Clay Café
Duck into the Java and Clay Café for a hot drink and a light lunch while your petit Picasso paints pottery in the back gallery. This waterfront eatery and art studio is an easy place to plop down for a while and get in some creative time on your daycay. Expect to spend at least $20 on pottery, but there’s no studio fee, and they can ship your mini me’s creations to you once they’re fired. If you make the trek on a Friday, the Paint Me a Story Time is a fun first stop. For $19, tiny tots ages 3 and older can listen to a story and then paint some pottery that fits the theme and nosh on snackables too. The program starts at 9:30 a.m. and lasts about an hour.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Galaxy Movie Theater
While catching a flick with your sidekick may not be the first thing you think to add to your daycation list, on a rainy day, it doesn’t get better than buttery popcorn and the luxed out recliners at the Galaxy Theater. Each seat is like an individual Lay-Z-Boy, with its own table that swivels into place so your snacks are at the ready. And in addition to big blockbuster hits, the theater also screens retro faves on the weekends (like the original Willy Wonka or Ferris Bueller), so families can make the most of the big screen. Our suggestion? Don’t get too comfy or all those midnight wakings with your munchkin might catch up to you and leave you napping through the movie.

Any Day Eats

You don’t need to venture too far to find good eats in the Harbor. There are plenty of places with water views, if you can’t get enough of Mt. Rainier looming over the marina, and a few other spots that just serve up good food, plain and simple. Breakfasts at Netshed No. 9 are pretty hard to beat and not just because of the outdoor dining space. They serve up big plates of breakfast faves with interesting twists, Thursdays through Mondays. Start with an order of the cast iron skillet cinnamon rolls (they come in maple glazed bacon too!) and then watch them hand roll these bad boys before they hit the oven. On the weekends, expect a wait, and although Netshed is definitely kid friendly, it’s a bring your own entertainment for the kiddos kind of place, so pack some crayons and paper for this one.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

The Harbor isn’t wanting for lunch spots either. The Devoted Kiss Café plates breakfast and lunchtime faves both indoors and out. If you can score a seat on the deck, it’s one of the best backdrops we’ve seen in a long time. And the much-anticipated JW Boatyard food trolley recently opened downtown. Not only do they serve up delish fish and chip combos, but they do it from the window of a restored train trolley car, which makes it all the more fun for the wee ones. Top it all off with a heaping scoop of gelato from the undeniably charming Harbor General Store and Café. It’s a doubly-sweet spot that has toys, crafts and a tiny tables for their littlest customers to enjoy.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

A casual dinner at The Gourmet Burger Shop is a one great way to end the day. Just across from Donkey Creek Park, five-napkin-burgers with creative, gooey toppings are the name of the game here. The restaurant itself is pretty small, but tables turn quickly. But if you can’t find a seat, take your dinner outside to the picnic benches or grassy parks right across the street. Anthony’s is another always-reliable, comfortingly familiar dinner spot in the Harbor. You can count on fresh seafood and an unbeatable view that everyone will enjoy here. Bon appetit!

Do you plan to take a Gig Harbor daycation this spring or summer? Tell us your favorite spot to visit in the Comments below. 

— Allison Sutcliffe

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5 Croissants Worth Fighting Traffic

by Meghan Rose

Kids love croissant. Pretty much any will do, even those soggy grocery store messes. So why seek out the best? Because the perfect croissant is transcendent, and one day they will appreciate that you taught them to discern the finer things in life. National Pastry Day (December 9, you know) is the perfect time to  teach your offspring what the flaky, buttery pastry ought to taste like. These are the best our city has to offer, and all are worth a trip across town. Bon Appétit!

photo credit: L’amande Bakery’s facebook page

L’Amande
This bakery tops our list for kids, because as we tasted our way across the city, it got top marks from some jaded little eaters, who proclaimed it “the best.” Might be the variety (when you have two chocolate choices—Nutella and plain chocolate—kids are very happy) or it might just be the perfect combination of soft in the inside, crunchy on the out, with buttery taste throughout.

Every single item on the menu is made fresh from scratch, in-house, every day from traditional French recipes. That means the croissant your little ones scarfed in 72 seconds took over 72 hours to make. That doesn’t matter. What matters is the yum factor, and it’s high. But you’ll like that it ups the locally crafted ante; they like to say that everything is crafted fresh, from flour to plate, just like the bakeries in France. Speaking of flour, don’t forget to get some baguettes to go. They’re spectacular as well.  As is the pistachio croissant, which you should save for yourself.

While you’re here…
You’re right around the corner from three top kids attractions in Beverly Hills, so it would be a shame to dine and dash. First stop is the Paley Center for Media. Weekends all holiday season you can meet Santa and the Mrs. and catch some classic holiday TV fare. You can also walk to the Beverly Hills library, which is one of our top picks for libraries for kids in the whole city.

9530 S Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills (There’s a second location in Torrance, too.)
Phone: 310-734-8922
Online: lamandebakery.com


photo credit: Maison Giraud’s facebook page

Maison Giraud
The plain croissant here are divine, and deservedly have a cult following. Made by French chef Alain Giraud, they are a Goldilocks dream—not too big, not too small, not too crunchy, not too soft. They are just right. Must be why these croissants land on pretty much every list of best in the city.

They also use the amazing croissant dough for the pain au chocolat for that kids adore; or they would, if you’d let them get a bite. You see, the bittersweet chocolate balances out your coffee so well, it’s rather hard to share. Order them a Blueberry Danish instead. They’re so delightful that the kids will almost forget your stole their chocolate. Almost.

While you’re here…
Our favorite way to indulge in these pastries is by getting here early (has to be early, because these popular pastries sell out fast) on a Sunday morning, getting a big bag to-go, and then popping through the Palisades Farmers Market for berries and fresh squeezed juices. Then bring your impromptu picnic brunch to the nearby Temescal Canyon, where you can dine outdoors and hike off all that butter.

1032 Swarthmore Ave., Pacific Palisades
Phone: 310-459-7561
Online: www.maison-giraud.com


photo credit: Proof Bakery’s facebook page

Proof
The “proof” is in the tasting, and the croissant here are spot on in taste. Don’t try and share them, these aren’t the massive croissants from the grocery bakery. They’re more petite, and have an extra crunch. Which is a perfect contrast to the delicate center. They’re unassuming and delicious and you should definitely get one in every flavor. Since they’re not-too-big. They come in plain, chocolate, almond and ham & Gruyere. Nuts, meat, cheese, sweets—that’s a very balanced meal.  You’ll appreciate that nothing in the shop is overly sweet, every item striking the perfect balance. And even your frosted donut loving sugar fiend will be too happy with their treats to notice the sugar restraint.

While you’re here…
You’re right by the blossoming LA River scene. You won’t believe it, but right by Atwater Village and next to the 5 freeway, you can walk right down to the greening of the LA River to see ducks, geese, herons and other birds who have made this spot home. Bring some leftover bread from home (you can’t waste your Proof purchases!) and feed the local fowl.

3156 Glendale Blvd., Atwater Village
Phone: 323-664-8633
Online: proofbakeryla.com


photo credit: Euro Pane’s facebook page

Euro Pane
We are starting to sound repetitive, right? Buttery. Flaky. A crunch as you bite, then it melts on the tongue. Soft, almost spongy in the middle. You look down and your lap is covered in crumbs. You don’t care. That’s the essence of a great croissant. That’s what Euro Pane makes. Come early and get them fresh first thing in the morning. (And if you come for lunch, they’re justifiably famous for their egg salad Sandwiches. Follow that up with a macaron, and it’s a lunch fit for kings. Or les roi.)

While you’re here…
You can walk to a great little hidden museum—the Pacific Asia Museum. The tucked away courtyard with a koi pond delights kids and is a peaceful respite for grownups, while the upstairs exhibit and play space that takes you an a journey along the Silk Road is delightful.

345 E Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
Phone: 626-844-8855
Online: facebook.com/pages/Euro-Pane-Bakery-Cafe

 

photo credit: Sweet Butter Kitchen’s facebook page

Sweet Butter Kitchen
With a bakery called “butter,” their croissant have to be good. And they are better than good, they’re stellar. Buttery and flaky, they invite you to unwind and munch. There’s nothing precious or pretentious about these pastries, it’s more like if you had an aunt who baked perfect pastries at home fresh each morning. French or not, somehow, these remind you of childhood and home. Yum.

And if you happen to get here on a morning when the Dulce de Leche Sea Salt Croissants are still warm, well, you’re going to have a very good day. Starting with that first bite.

While you’re here…
Fill up on croissant and then head up the street about one mile. Now you’re at the COOP, one of the best indoor playgrounds in the city. Sip that coffee you got to-go while the kids work off the buttery breakfast and you relax and peruse your favorite magazine.

13824 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks
Phone: 818-788-2832
Online: sweetbutterkitchen.com

-Meghan Rose

Where are your favorite croissant (or other pastry) shops in LA? Let us know in the comment section!

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The 2 Best Parks You’ve Never Been To

by sommy rhee

Google “kid-friendly parks in Los Angeles.”  Go ahead, we’ll wait.  Or we’ll save you the trouble: you’ll find lots of the same old familiar parks where you’ve probably play-dated plenty.  What you won’t find is either of these two hidden gems: Barnsdall Park and Greystone Mansion Park. Even their names sound very grown-up.  And at first glance, they both seem like beautiful, romantic places perfect for a doting, artsy couple in the honeymoon days of their relationship (yes, we were there once too).  But once you uncover what these parks have to offer, you’ll soon realize that they are both oft-overlooked family friendly spots that offers gorgeous outdoor views as well as fun attractions for the kids.  So this weekend take the family to explore one of these parks (instead of hitting the one down the street for the umpteenth time, the one where your kids take off for the jungle gym and you browse your iPhone) – we think they’ll become new favorite destinations.

Greystone Mansion & Park
Greystone Mansion was built by an oil magnate in 1927 and is a real piece of LA history.  The kids will get a kick out of visiting this castle-like structure (called Greystone because of all the grey stone used to build it – just like a castle!) with impressive grounds that include ponds with turtles and koi.  When driving up to the entrance be sure to look for a small green sign that says, Greystone Park Entrance, which marks the drive uphill to the spacious and free parking lot.


Once parked, head for the winding stairs, which are accessorized with cool plants of all sorts, including greens that are unconventionally planted on top of mini roofs.

Visit the many koi ponds that they have on the grounds.  The kids can sit for hours just observing the fish, baby tadpoles, and sun-basking turtles.

Equip the kids with comfortable shoes since there are a lot of paved paths great for strolling (but not great for strollers, so if you’ve got pre-walkers, don’t forget the baby carriers).  When you wander, don’t forget to stop and enjoy gorgeous views of Beverly Hills and beyond.

Being a little known spot means that this is a wonderful park to come to on a hot day – it’s rarely crowded and you can always find a place for a blanket under a shady tree to curl up with books, or watch the kids run around.  And don’t forget the cameras – there are tons of beautiful backdrops for family portraits or pictures of the kids (especially if they’re wearing their knight or princess costumes, as they’ll look right at home with the castle-like mansion in the background).  And check out the website for special events hosted here: car shows, tea time on the terrace, foodie classes for grownups and special summer music concerts all take place throughout the year.

Potty Presence
When you park, you may wish to note that the bathrooms are located at the bottom of the stairs next to the koi pond before you get to the mansion. This is convenient when you first arrive, and not as handy once you’ve started wandering.  You might want to make a pit stop upon arrival…

Greystone Mansion & Park
905 Loma Vista Drive
Beverly Hills, Ca
Phone: 310-286-0119
Online: greystonemansion.org
Hours: Daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Barnsdall Park
Located in the Hollywood/Los Feliz area is a surprisingly peaceful, kid-friendly park with loads of free parking.  Upon entering the park, you can park at the ground level or drive up the hill to park closer to the art gallery and grounds. (If you are toting your kids and your stroller, we definitely suggest parking at the top of the hill.)

There is a large sunny lawn area for the kids to run around and catch some amazing views of the city.  Play “I Spy” with the kiddos and see if they can spot the Hollywood sign or the Griffith Observatory from afar.

Sun or shade?  This park has both.  When you need a break from the sunshine, grassy play, and spectacular views in front of the Hollyhock House (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright), move to the shady side in front of the Art Gallery, where you can get a little respite from the heat.  This side also has nice paths for scooters and little bikes.  And every Sunday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm kids can let their creative minds loose at the free family art workshops that are open to the public .

In addition to the free weekend art classes, daily art classes for kids (and adults) are also offered varying by age and topic (and at very reasonable city-subsidized fees).  Check the website for the most recent list of classes here.


Barnsdall Park also offers wine tastings at the Hollyhock House (curated by Silverlake Wine) on Friday afternoons all summer, that offer juice boxes & crafts to the kids, and food trucks & hipster DJs spinning tunes for all.  You can always take a tour of the Municipal Art Gallery that houses some of Southern California’s rising stars in the art world or tour the Hollyhock House, also known as architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s very first project in Los Angeles.  Still need a reason to visit?  If you happen come on Wednesdays from 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm you can stock up on fresh fruits and veggies and enjoy an impromptu picnic at the farmer’s market.

Potty Presence
There is a spacious bathroom located right across from the Junior Arts Studio, but be sure to ask for the key from the Junior Arts Studio. When the studio is closed, don’t panic, take the kids to the bathroom located inside the Municipal Art Gallery. (Potty training parents please note that if both the Junior Arts Studio and the Municipal Art Gallery are closed, there are no outside public bathrooms.)

Barnsdall Park
4800 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, Ca
Phone: 323-660-4254
Online: barnsdall.org
Hours: Daily 5:00 am-10:00 pm

When did you last go to either of these picturesque parks?

— Sommy Rhee

Images courtesy of Sommy herself!

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14 Small Town Getaways

by Erin Lem

For many of us, it’s not a tough trade: swapping a reliable cell signal and ubiquitous wi-fi for a sweet slice of small town heaven. Tucked away in all corners of the Northwest are tiny backwater hamlets, perched seaside, on idyllic bays or in mountain clefts, brimming with character, friendly locals and a peaceful main street to stroll. Slow your pace a while and explore these 14 tiny towns; the city, and all its cares, will be here when you get back.

Bow Edison

Be hungry. That’s the first rule of any visit to darling Bow Edison, a pair of tiny twin towns about a half-hour north of La Conner and a quick detour off farmland-scenic Chuckanut Drive. Bow is actually marked just by the turnoff to Edison; you’ll see the Rhododendron Cafe and the Bow Post Office at the Bow Hill Road intersection. Make your way into Edison.

Your first stop should be at Farm to Market Bakery (Bow, 14003 Gilmore Ave.; 360.766.6240), where you can pick up a lime-soaked polenta cake or two for breakfast or a snack. But if you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a weekend, save room for the gorgeous farm-to-table lunches awaiting in the town of Edison at Tweets (Edison, 5800 Cains Court; 360.820.9912; open Friday–Sunday only). Chef David Blakesley creates ever-changing menus that showcase the area’s sensational produce.

Browse through town and stop in at the Edison Eye Gallery (Bow, 5800 Cains Court; 360.766.6276) and the Lucky Dumpster (14044 MacTaggart Ave.; 360.766.4049), where recycled materials become gifts and reclaimed wood becomes gorgeous furniture.

Next, pop over to the Breadfarm (Edison, 5766 Cains Court; 360.766.4065; pictured left, photo by Gabriel Rodriguez) to pick up a loaf of the sensational bread (black olive baguette, Tonasket rye or multigrain) and then head back toward Bow to the Samish Bay Cheese shop (Bow, 15115 Bow Hill Road; 360.766.6707), where splendid cheeses await (the Ladysmith and Port Edison are standouts).

Bread and cheese in hand, it’s time for a scenic drive and an impromptu picnic on your way to The Wild Iris in La Conner. (There’s no in-town lodging in Bow Edison, though there are several house rentals in the area, some of them waterfront. Check vrbo.com for those listings.) It’s a pleasant trip, especially if you take Farm to Market Road or the longer (but worth it!) trek via Bayview Edison Road, which winds through farmland and offers sensational views of hidden inlets and wetlands.

Summertime visitors, don’t miss the Mount Vernon Farmers Market on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., where both Samish Bay and the Breadfarm sell their wares. —ALLISON AUSTIN SCHEFF

GETTING THERE: About 90 minutes north of Seattle via Interstate 5. See map. 

To read the full list of 14 small town getaways, click here for the entire Seattle Magazine story. 

This is our weekly guest post from our friends at Seattle Magazine, which keeps readers on the pulse of restaurants, personalities, arts, entertainment and culture that reflect the tapestry of our dynamic landscape. We’ve teamed up for an exciting partnership to bring you a weekly dose of fantastic Date Night ideas throughout greater Seattle.

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