The Sunnyside of Life: The Best Playgrounds in Queens

by Wai Sze ZaraApril 10, 2022

Queens is known the world over for its rich diversity of people, food, cultures and more, and you might as well playgrounds to that list. We scouted this borough, one with 91 distinct neighborhoods, for the best places for kids to play the afternoon (or day) away. From playgrounds in giant waterside parks and ones on the beach, to neighborhood gems and groundbreaking play environments, Queens has got a playground or two for you. For even more places to play in NYC, try our favorite playgrounds in Manhattan, check out our favorite playgrounds in Brooklyn, and for the dog days of summer, check out these shady playgrounds in NYC.

children playing in playground in queens

photo: Matt B. via Yelp

Hunter’s Point South Park playground
Located in The Gantry Park in Long Island City, this playground features state-of-the-art equipment, with play structures that challenge kids with all levels of agility. It also offers a breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline, and is especially nice when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Parking can be limited but it is conveniently located near the Vernon Boulevard subway station.

Hunter’s Point South Park playground
Center Blvd. between 50th Ave. & 2nd St.
Long Island City
Online: Hunter’s Point South Park

photo: NYC Parks Dept.

Van Alst Playground
An investment of more than $3 million several years ago upgraded this Astoria playground and its facilities. Operated in cooperation with PS 171, the playground now features a new multipurpose space for sports, new play equipment, renovated handball courts, and an upgraded spray shower. Plus, green infrastructure improvements and lighting updates bring environmental and safety benefits to the outdoor space.

21st Street between 29 and 30th Aves.
Astoria
Online: nycgovparks.org

photo: NYC Parks

Lance Corporal Thomas P. Noonan Playground
This playground named for a local hero of the Vietnam War was upgraded several years ago to create a separate play area and include accessible play equipment. In addition to play structures at all levels, there is a toddler area and a rainbow sprinkler. The park also has handball and basketball courts for older kids.

47 Ave., Greenpoint Ave. bet. 42 St. and 43 St.
Sunnyside
Online: nycgovparks.org

Jando S. via Yelp

Torsney Playground
This is a nice Sunnyside spot to play with colorful structures for big and little kids. Located in Lou Lodati Park, there’s a popular dog park here as well, partially funded by the Sunnyside United Dog Society. You’ll also find handball courts, bathrooms and a spray shower for the summer months.

Skillman Ave. between 41st and 43rd St.
Sunnyside
Online: nycgovparks.org

photo: Amelie L. via yelp

Elmhurst Park playground
This is a high-energy place to play, complete with tiny “motorbikes” that entice little ones to hop on and pretend to take a ride. It’s surrounded by a six-acre green space where families picnic on the grass, and kids love rolling down the hills here. There is a small trail around the playground that locals use to jog or bike and a small splash pad is a good place for little tikes to cool off in the summer. This is another area where parking can be a challenge, but The Grand Avenue subway station, served by the E, M and R is on the same block.

Elmhurst Park
57th Ave. & Grand Ave.
Elmhurst
Online: Elmhurst Park

photo: Irene Cheung

Moore Homestead Playground
Renovated in 2020 to be more accessible and welcoming, the Moore Homestead Playground is another good spot in Elmhurst. The park redesign reduced fence heights, increased ADA accessibility and added native plant species to increase biodiversity. In addition to upgraded play equipment and spray showers, new ball courts and a new amphitheater were installed. Fun trivia: the park is named for Clement Clarke Moore, the author of the poem that became popularly known as “The Night Before Christmas.”

Moore Homestead Playground
Broadway & 45th Ave. & 82nd St.
Elmhurst
Online: Moore Homestead playground

photo: Wai Sze Zara

Astoria Heights Playground
This modern playground filled with activity is somewhat hidden amongst a few apartment buildings. The area school’s population and local community offered significant input on its design, which is divided into two areas. Visit the upper level for tennis, volleyball, basketball and exercise equipment. Smaller kids will love the climbing and sliding apparatus here, and in the summer, there’s an enclosed splash pad. Picnic tables make this playground a solid choice to spend an afternoon or host a birthday party. The Astoria Boulevard subway station is a few blocks away.

Astoria Heights Playground
30 Rd. between 45th St. and 46th St.
Astoria
Online: Astoria Heights Playground

photo: Wai Sze Zara

Juniper North playground
This playground is located in Juniper Valley Park, where locals come to play tennis, basketball and shuffleboard. (You can even play bocce here.) Kids explore two play zones at Juniper North. A newly-renovated splash pad comes complete with dunk bucket that pours on to people below when it’s full. A padded play surface makes this a spot where little ones can run around and you don’t have to worry. Benches are plentiful here, so parents can comfortably watch their children explore. Need more? Further South of Juniper Valley Park there is another playground with similar amenities.

Juniper North Playground
80th St., Juniper Blvd. S, 77th Place
Juniper Blvd. S., 78th St.
Online: Juniper North playground

photo: Johnny F. via yelp

Ella Fitzgerald Playground
This playground named for one of jazz’s leading ladies is located between three of Queens’ largest parks: Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Kissena Park and Cunningham Park. (Pro-tip: There is a bike lane that connects the three green spaces.) The jungle gym is not brand new but it offers everything that little ones love about a playground. The splash pad is compact and but well used during the hot months. Fun Fact: As part of the NYC Parks Initiative to expand African American representation in 2020, this playground was renamed to honor Ella Fitzgerald, former Queens resident, for her incredible contributions to jazz and music.

Ella Fitzgerald playground
Kissena Corridor Park
187-98 Peck Ave.
Fresh Meadows
Online: Ella Fitzgerald playground

photo: Jia H. via Yelp

Springfield playground
This playground located in Alley Pond Park features a treehouse theme, and kids can climb, walk on and slide down a giant sylvan structure. What makes this a special spot perfect for a day of outdoor fun is the easy walking trails (paved and unpaved) that connect this playground to two others within Alley Pond Park. Don’t miss the Alley Pond Environmental Center, which is right next door and offers nature-inspired programs for children.

Springfield Playground
Springfield Blvd. & 76th Ave.
Bayside
Online: Springfield Playground

photo: Christina L. via yelp

Bowne Park
This playground is located in the quiet residential neighborhood of Murray Hill, Flushing. It’s a well-maintained park with access to a pond that has been under construction recently, normally plenty of ducks and even turtles can be spotted here. A short walk through a paved pathway leads to the playground on the opposite end. There is a fun splash pad, “kid’s only” hide-out and climbing structures safe for tots to explore. The hilly paths are also great for children learning to bike, scoot or rollerblade. The park also has basketball courts and a bocce court.

Bowne Park
159th St. & 29th Ave.
Flushing
Online: Bowne Park

photo: Wai Sze Zara

Marie Curie Playground
This playground honoring the first female scientist to win Nobel Prizes in Chemistry and Physics offers an extensive group of play structures for kids to explore, and numerous slides of varying heights. It’s a great playground for imaginative play, where the structures can become spaceships, castles or anything your kids can think up. Parents take note: this playground has three entry/exit points so keep an eye out. Pro-tip: There is a small free city public pool on-site for when kids need to cool off during the summer months.

Marie Curie playground
211th St. & 46th Ave.
Bayside
Online: Marie Curie playground

photo: Amelia L. via yelp

Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Covering a whopping 898 acres of space, Flushing Meadows Corona Park is the largest park in Queens. (It is, in fact, larger than Central Park.) Known for hosting two 20-century World’s Fairs, the remnants of which include the iconic Unisphere, it is also home to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center and Citi Field, home to the New York Mets. You have your pick of playgrounds here—there are eight! One of the older, but still very popular playgrounds here is Jurassic Playground (above), which is a must-visit for any family with a dino-crazed tot. Hop on a giant dinosaur statue, and play among the silhouettes of dinos of all kinds. Plus, there’s a nice lake view and picnic tables. Find Jurassic Playground on the western shore of Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.

Meadow Lake Dr. & Meadow Lake Trail
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
Corona
Online: nycgovparks.org

photo: Lisa F. via yelp

Playground For All Children
Also located in Flushing Meadows Park, this special playground was built in 1984. It was the first playground in the country to offer an accessible play environment for children of all abilities. This model playground paved the way for future sites near and far and it is designed for kids ages three to 12 to exercise their social, cognitive and motor skills. A recreation area invites kids to cross a 12-foot suspension bridge, and they can make music and cool off in the Water Wheel zone. Another reason to visit this park, especially in the summer? It’s got shade. Pro-tip: It is right next door to Queens Zoo, Queens Museum and the Hall of Science. Plan ahead and make it a full day of activities. It is a healthy 20-minute walk from the Mets-Willets subway station.

Playground for All Children
Flushing Meadows Park
111-16 Corona Ave.
Online: Playground For All Children

photo: Wai Sze Zara

Lawrence playground
Another recently renovated playground, this one is located on the border of Flushing Meadows Park. Young sprouts love sitting on top of the two dolphin-shaped sculptures, and there are several modern overhead climbing structures to choose from. This is the go-to destination for ninjas-in-training—there’s even an elevated track to hang on tight to and glide across. Pro-tip: Extend the day and visit Queens Botanical Garden, which is right across the street.

Lawrence Playground
Flushing Meadows Park
55-2 College Point Blvd.
Online: Lawrence Playground

photo: Charelle W. via yelp

30th Street Playground
Viitors to this Far Rockaway beach playground enjoy lovely views of the Atlantic ocean. Kids enjoy a variety of play structures, as well as the opportunity to dig in a giant sandbox. You can get here by train; it’s a short walk from the Beach 36th St. subway station.

Beach 30th St.
Rockaway Boardwalk between B. 32nd Street & B. 28th Street
Far Rockaway
Online: Beach 30th Street Playground

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7 Hidden Gems in LA We’re Pretty Sure You’ve Never Visited

by Andie HuberMarch 18, 2022

LA may be one of America’s most visited cities, but for locals and those in-the-know who have already done the main attractions around LA, there are some pretty special, hidden gems sprinkled all over this city. These are just the sort of places and experiences that confirms why we love living here (and for rainy day suggestions, check out our LA guide to must-visit quirky museums). Certify your street cred. and see if you’ve ever been to these hidden gems in LA.

Victoria Beach Pirate Tower: Located in Laguna Beach, this ominous-looking 60-foot tower (originally used as an enclosed staircase for the homeowners to access the beach) was built in 1926. Just to the south of the tower is another long-forgotten structure—a circular pool. And while the pool, over time, has partially filled up with sand, water still collects inside when the tide is high enough for waves to crash in on it.

To Access the Victoria Beach Pirate Tower: Only accessible during low tide, walk to the north end of Victoria Beach (public beach access is next to: 2713 Victoria Dr. where there is a long stairway that eventually takes you to the north end of the beach). Go past the rock outcropping at the base of the cliff, continue walking around the bluff, over the rocks and past another sandy beach section. You will reach the pool first (which sits in front of a modern staircase) and then you'll see the tower that stands north of the pool.

Flight Path Museum and Learning Center LAX

This museum hosts a great collection of airline artifacts, including a display of over 600 airline uniforms from 68 airlines around the world, and walks you through the history of LAX. Tours of the resident corporate DC-3, a 1940s airplane that was deregistered in 1951, are sometimes available. This is the only aviation museum situated at a major airport—with the added bonus is being able to watch the planes taxi, take-off and land at adjacent LAX. Free parking is available.

Insider Tip: If your crew gets hungry but still wants to continue watching planes land at LAX, head over to The Proud Bird—just 6 minutes away by car.

Hours: Open Sat., noon-4 p.m.
Cost: $5 for adults, $3 for kids

6661 W Imperial Hwy.
Los Angeles
Online: flightpathlax.com

St. Vincent's Court: Originally serving as a delivery area for now-defunct department store, this little alleyway has been transformed over time into LA's very own little Europe—complete with picturesque cobblestone streets, colorful storefronts and must-dine Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern restaurants.

To Access St. Vincent's Court: Located between Broadway and Hill St. in DTLA, this alley is accessible off of the north side of 7th St.

Ballona Discovery Park

Described as a “Museum without walls,” Ballona Discovery Park encourages visitors to learn about the natural and cultural history of the Ballona Wetlands. This secret gem encourages kids to romp and explore the two-acre native garden and wildlife habitat replete with native plant demonstration gardens, including a pollinator and medicinal garden. There’s also an interpretive Watershed Walk that follows the movement of water through every habitat from the mountains to the ocean.

Cost: Free.
Hours: Open every day from dawn until dusk.

Ballona Discovery Park
13110 Bluff Creek Dr.
Playa Vista
Online: ballonafriends.org/ballona-discovery-park

San Vicente Mountain Park Nike Missile Site: Located west of the Skirball Cultural Center, this historical spot, according to MRCA, "Was one of sixteen Los Angeles area Nike-Ajax supersonic anti-aircraft missile launch sites. During the Cold War, Nike sites were located in defensive rings surrounding key urban and industrial areas throughout the United States. The original radar tower now provides visitors with spectacular views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Encino Reservoir and San Fernando Valley, and the Los Angeles Basin. It is one of the region’s premiere locations to watch a Western sunset." The area is now home to mountain biking, trails, equestrian trails and picnic areas.

To Access the Nike Missile Site Lookout Tower: Located at 17500 Mulholland Dr., Encino, head west along Mulholland Dr. The road curves north to merge into Encino Hills Dr., and eventually, you'll see a sign for Encino Hills Dr. pointing to the right—this is where you want to take a left, and Mulholland Drive turns into an unmarked dirt road. In a couple hundred feet, a yellow gate welcomes you to the base of the park. You can keep driving to the tower if the next gate is open otherwise, you can hike the well-marked path—it's under 1-mile to the lookout tower.

places you've probably never been in LA — BAPS.org

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir: This free-to-visit Mandir (a Hindu place of worship) is the fifth traditional Hindu Mandir located in North America. Located an hour outside DTLA, this SoCal architectural gem's exterior is made from pink sandstone imported from India while the interior is covered in marble from Italy.

The lower floor of the Mandir is home to an interactive exhibition on the history, culture and wisdom of Hinduism. Visitors can learn about the origin, beliefs, and values of Hinduism, and how this ancient religion is thriving today throughout the world. Inside the Mandir, you'll see intricate carvings across the walls, ceiling, columns and displays of murtis. There's open space for people to pray and worship on the floor. The gift shop has a variety of food (make sure to get the samosas!), snack, teas, incense and souvenirs.

Good to Know: As this is a place a worship, please follow and respect signs and fellow guests. Be prepared to take off your shoes as you enter the Mandir, and please cover your shoulders and knees per the website's guidelines.

15100 Fairfield Ranch Road,
Chino Hills
Online: baps.org

Japanese Garden at the Donald C. Tillman Water Reclamation Plant

Currently free to visit, "Suiho En" (the garden of water and fragrance) is a quiet and peaceful 6 1/2 acre garden featuring three gardens in one: a dry Zen meditation garden, a “wet-strolling” garden, and a tea garden all of which are irrigated entirely by wastewater.

Good to Know: While the garden alone is worth the visit, once life returns to normal, come back and make reservations for tea service at the Shoin Building—an authentic 4 1/2 tatami-mat teahouse adjacent to the tea garden.

Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m-3:30 p.m. Advanced reservations required and can be booked up to 10 days in advance.
Cost: Free

6100 Woodley Ave.
Van Nuys
Online: thejapanesegarden.com

9 Unusual & Unique Museums in LA Worth Visiting This Weekend

by Jennifer O'BrienMarch 17, 2022

You’ve take the kiddos to LACMA, the Broad and the Petersen more times than you can count, and even though they’re amazing, you might be craving something a more unusual and unique museum experience. We’ve rounded up some of the quirkiest, most whimsical, curious and downright fascinating museums around LA that are off-the-beaten-path but oh so worth the visit. Check out the list below and get ready to experience only-in-LA museum exhibits and collections that should definitely be on your radar (especially when you’re looking for something to do on those rainy days!).

Unique Museums in LA: Museum of Neon Art

The Museum of Neon Art (MONA) in downtown Glendale is the only museum in the world exclusively dedicated to art in electric media, exhibiting electric and kinetic fine art and eye-popping examples of historic neon signs. Kids will beam with excitement over all the vibrant colors and insane creativity on display. And with constant rotating exhibitions, there’s always something new to see. Guests 18 and older can even take classes in neon bending and create some groovy artwork of their very own.

Cost: General admission is $10, while kiddos 12 and under are free.
Hours: Fri. – Sat., 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. and Sun., 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Museum of Neon Art
216 S. Brand Blvd.
Glendale
Online: neonmona.org

Unique Museums in LA: Martial Arts History Museum

Located in Burbank, the Martial Arts History Museum is an Asian education, cultural and artistic experience that encourages young people to learn about each of the Asian countries and how martial arts has played a pivotal role in their culture, history and traditions. Additionally, it also features a look at American history with sections on the History of Anime, Martial Arts in America, and Media arts including Hollywood films, TV and magazines. The museum also hosts some interesting events for families throughout the year like sushi seminars, martial arts demonstrations, Asian musical performances, movie screenings and their annual Dragonfest Expo.

Cost: Admission for adults is $10 and kids aged 6-17 are $5.
Hours: Thur. - Sun., 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Martial Arts History Museum
2319 W. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank
Online: martialartsmuseum.com

Unique Museums in LA: Heritage Square Museum

The Heritage Square Museum is an immersive living history and open-air architecture museum that explores the settlement and development of Southern California during its first 100 years of statehood. Located on period appropriate landscaped grounds, the museum features eight historically significant buildings from different Los Angeles neighborhoods constructed during the Victorian Era. Structures on display include a church from Pasadena, a railroad station from Century City and numerous private residences from around the city. Guided interior tours are available on Sat. and Sun. with advanced tickets available through Eventbrite.

Cost: Admission is $10 for adults, children aged 6-12 are $5, and children under 6 are free.
Hours: Sat. and Sun., 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Heritage Square Museum
3800 Homer St.
Los Angeles
Online: heritagesquare.org

Unique Museums in LA: Museum of Jurassic Technology

One of America’s most unusual museums, the Museum of Jurassic Technology in Culver City refers to itself as, “An education institution dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and public appreciation of the Lower Jurassic” – the geologic period that ended 145 million years ago, before the appearance of any "technology" as we know it. Uh…okay? This dimly lit labyrinth of a museum is difficult to define. It’s sort of a cabinet of curiosities filled with bizarre exhibits that may or may not be based in reality—like "Garden on Wheels: Selected Collections from Los Angeles Area Mobile Home and Trailer Parks," and "Lives of Perfect Creatures: Dogs of the Soviet Space Program," and of course, "Rotten Luck: The Decaying Dice of Ricky Jay" (a collection of decomposing antique dice once owned by magician Ricky Jay). It’s anything but boring and well worth an afternoon of odd exploration and questioning.

Cost: Advanced timed tickets are required. Adults are $12 and kids ages 12 and under are free.
Hours: Thur. - Fri., 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. and Sat. - Sun., 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Museum of Jurassic Technology
9341 Venice Blvd.
Culver City
Online: mjt.org

Unique Museums in LA: International Printing Museum

The International Printing Museum in Carson is dedicated to bringing the history of printing and books to the masses. Home to one of the world’s largest and most extensive collections of antique printing machinery and graphic arts equipment, the museum’s mission is to interpret and present the collection for a contemporary audience through demonstrations of working machinery, historic re-enactments, and hands-on workshops. Guided tours last approximately one hour.

Cost: Adult admission is $12 and students are $10.
Hours: Sat., 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Tue. – Fri. by appointment only.

International Printing Museum
315 W. Torrance Blvd.
Carson
Online: printmuseum.org

Unique Museums in LA: Ballona Discovery Park

Described as a “museum without walls,” Ballona Discovery Park encourages visitors to learn about the natural and cultural history of the Ballona Wetlands. This secret gem encourages kids to romp and explore the two-acre native garden and wildlife habitat replete with native plant demonstration gardens, including a pollinator and medicinal garden. Or littles might dig a peaceful stroll along the riparian corridor where coots and other birds can often be spotted in the waters below. There’s also an interpretive Watershed Walk that follows the movement of water through every habitat from the mountains to the ocean.

Cost: Free.
Hours: Open every day from dawn until dusk.

Ballona Discovery Park
13110 Bluff Creek Dr.
Playa Vista
Online: ballonafriends.org/ballona-discovery-park

Unique Museums in LA: Time Travel Mart

With the cheeky slogan, “Whenever You Are, We’re Already Then,” the Time Travel Mart is time travel themed retail storefront that funds 826LA, a non-profit dedicated to supporting LA students with their creative and writing skills. With locations in Echo Park and Mar Vista, Time Travel Mart is LA’s only purveyor of goods from the past, present and future and features hilariously curated items for sale like Wooly Mammoth Chunks, Barbarian Repellant, Pastports, Robot Toupees and Evolution Laser Fingers—and who doesn’t need those? This store is pure fun from start to finish and is well worth the trip.

Cost: Free to enter.
Hours: Mar Vista location: Fri.-Sun. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; Echo Park location: Mon.-Sun. noon - 6:00 p.m.

Time Travel Mart
Echo Park & Mar Vista
Online: timetravelmart.com

Unique Museums in LA: Valley Relics Museum

Located in two airplane hangars at the Van Nuys Airport, the Valley Relics Museum is a fun-filled journey through the San Fernando Valley and surrounding area's past. The museum combines pop-culture and historical artifacts with over 25,000 items ranging from neon signs, classic cars and yearbooks to restaurant menus, vintage BMX bikes and a playable retro arcade. For anyone who like grew up in the Valley, like this will be a totally treasured trip down memory lane—like totally.

Cost: Admission is $15 for adults and kids 10 and under are free.
Hours: Sat., 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Valley Relics Museum
7900 Balboa Blvd. (Hangar C 3 & 4)
Van Nuys
Online: valleyrelicsmuseum.org

Unique Museums in LA: FIDM Museum

Have a pint-sized fashionista at home? The FIDM Museum and Library collects, preserves, and interprets fashion objects and support materials with outstanding design merit. Their incredible rotating exhibitions throughout the year are a great way educate kids about the creative process and self-expression. The latest exhibit, "Art of Costume Design and Film" just launched and will be on display at FIDM from now until Jun. 4.

Cost: Admission is free.
Hours: Open during exhibitions only, Tues. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

FIDM Museum
919 Grand Ave.
Downtown
Online: fidmmuseum.org

—Jennifer O’Brien

7 Fun & Free Things to Do with Kids in January

by Bonnie TaylorDecember 14, 2021

After the mad rush of the holidays is over, you’ll want to find some peace and quiet. Take a hike, explore historic homesteads, gaze at public art and stroll through secret gardens. These seven places will refresh your spirits to help you re-focus on new adventures for the new year.

Hiking

Get some fresh air for a fresh start to your new year and hit the trails. There are so many hiking trails in the city, along the coast, inland or in the forest. Pull up the map on your phone, type in “hiking” and look for all the green dashed lines to choose from. Read the reviews and click on the photos to get a sense of if that’s the right trail for you. Below are two favorite kid-friendly trails to check out.

Mission Trails Regional Park
Start at the Visitor’s Center for an easy 1.5-mile loop trail, head down to the Kumeyaay Lake Campground for a 1-mile loop nature walk or start at the Old Mission Dam and after throwing rocks in the water head out for a fun 1-mile loop on the Oak Grove Trail.

1 Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Carlos
619-668-3281
Online: mtrp.org

Louis A. Stelzer County Park
After the koi pond, turn right to start your loop hike that will take you through shaded oak trees, around large boulders for climbing, up and over the hill and down around to the shaded playground, bathrooms and picnic tables. You’ll end up right where you started from so you can just turn left and get there too. Parking is $3 at all county parks, bring cash.

11470 Wildcat Canyon Rd., Lakeside
619-561-0580
Online: sdparks.org

Ranch Houses

Get some perspective and see what life was like in the early days of San Diego. You can tour these historic ranch houses inside during business hours and outside you can walk around anytime. Both of these have great kid-friendly trails that you can take a little walkabout and the Rancho Penasquitos Adobe has goats and chickens around back that you can feed if the ranger is there.

Rancho Penasquitos Adobe
12122 Canyonside Park Dr., Rancho Penasquitos
858-484-7504
Online: sdparks.org

Sikes Adobe Farmstead
12655 Sunset Dr., Escondido
858-674-2275
Online: sdrp.org

Tide Pooling

Get your feet wet in the new year and look for some sea creatures that the tide brings in. Winter is the best time for tide pooling due to the lower tides and few people. Here are a couple of good spots to find sea urchins and starfish.

Scripps Memorial Pier
Just north of Scripps Pier
8650 Kennel Way, La Jolla

Cardiff State Beach Tide Pools
Just south of Lifeguard Tower 10
355 S Coast Hwy 101, Cardiff

Libraries

Libraries have more fun than just checking out a new book; which you should still totally do. Check your local library events calendar for fun kids programs for activities like afternoon movies, storytimes, kids yoga, craft activities and tons more. Each library varies with its events and some require advanced registration and fill up quickly. Don’t forget that each city usually has its own library, along with the county having its own library system too.

San Diego Public Library
Online: sandiego.gov

San Diego County Library
Online: sdcl.org

Balboa Park

Wander around the museums at Balboa Park for free on Resident’s Free Tuesdays. General admission is free to San Diego residents on a rotating basis, check the schedule here to see which museums are open on which Tuesdays. Valid with proof of residency for locals and active duty military and their dependents. Favorite kid-friendly museums include Fleet Science Center, San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Model Railroad Museum, San Diego Automotive Museum, San Diego Air & Space Museum, and the Japanese Friendship Garden.

Balboa Park
1549 El Prado, Balboa Park
619-239-0512
Online: balboapark.org

Liberty Station

Discuss your interpretation of art as you walk along the art scavenger hunt trail and find the various public art displays as you go. This will take you all around Liberty Station, up to a secret rooftop, around the water fountains and through the public market. Scan the QR codes on the art displays and log them into the online entry form to win some discounts for the local shops when you finish. Plan to stop for brunch or lunch at the public market and have a picnic outside in the large grassy field. Plan for some extra time to play at the playground (bathrooms nearby!), down by the bay.

Liberty Station
2640 Historic Decatur Rd., Point Loma
619-573-9300
Online: libertystation.com

Garden Walks

Stop and smell the flowers at these beautiful gardens. Balboa Park has over 13 gardens that anyone can walk through and they will take you all over the park to find them. Point Loma Native Plant Garden and Mission Valley River Garden are usually pretty empty because very few people know about these hidden gems. After strolling these fields, you’ll leave with a renewed feeling of joy to start your year off right.

Balboa Park
1363 El Prado, Balboa Park
619-239-0512
Online: balboapark.org

Point Loma Native Plant Garden
2275 Mendocino Blvd., Point Loma
619-297-7380
Online: sandiegoriver.org

Mission Valley River Garden
3376 Camino del Rio N, Mission Valley
619-297-7380
Online: sandiegoriver.org

—Bonnie Taylor

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Discover 9 Secret Garden Walks in San Diego for Magical Outings

by Bonnie TaylorMay 16, 2021

Invite your favorite flower- and plant- loving friend, mom or grandma to escape with you into these secret gardens for Mother’s Day or any day! The solitude and splendor you’ll find on these magical walks is worth the drive. They’re all kid-friendly with some having playgrounds, alphabet gardens or sensory touch & smell gardens. All are stroller/walker friendly and perfect for taking a slower pace, while allowing bigger kids to run ahead. Read on to find which one you’ll stroll over to first!

Insider’s Tip: 3 of these gardens participate in the American Horticultural Society (AHS) reciprocal membership program. Buy a membership to one of the three gardens, and you’ll get reciprocal admission to all three of them, as well as to 330+ other public gardens across North America.

Japanese Friendship Garden

Jump across the rocks in the stream, walk over the bridges and admire the Japanese culture from this beautifully landscaped garden. The flat gravel trails will take you all the way down to the bottom of the canyon and back up again. Along the way you’ll see all the koi fish ponds, waterfall, bamboo water fountains and sculptures. Afterward, stop at the Tea Pavilion next door to choose from over 50 kinds of tea, noodle dishes or Japanese snacks.

Membership: Get a membership here for reciprocal admission to other AHS gardens.

Bathrooms: yes, at the top and bottom of the trails

Japanese Friendship Garden
2215 Pan American Rd. E, Balboa Park
619-232-2721
Online: niwa.org

Rice Canyon Demonstration Gardens

Wander through this little cactus and succulent garden near the small parking lot before you head down to the trails for an easy hike. It’s a 3 mile path out and back, so only go out half as far as little legs will walk before they get tired. Just across the street is Discovery Park with a shaded playground and bathrooms.

Cost: Free

Bathrooms: not here, but you’ll find some across the street at Discovery Park

Rice Canyon Demonstration Gardens
N Rancho Del Rey Pkwy + Buena Vista Way
Online: ricecanyondemonstrationgardens.org

San Diego Botanic Garden

Stop and smell the flowers in this horticultural wonderland featuring exotic plants from all over the world. There are 37 acres of plant species and 4 miles of trails from which to enjoy them all. There are 2 children’s gardens here that you don’t want to miss. Hamilton Children’s Garden has a big treehouse to climb inside and up to the top, a musical garden, a large sand pit and a stream to play in. The Seeds of Wonder Children’s Garden has dinosaurs, a playhouse and running model trains. Kids will also love the ABC garden with a plant labeled for each letter of the alphabet.

Special Event: The Oceanside Museum of Art has a current exhibit inspired by nature that complements the botanical setting. You’ll find 13 different works of art displayed throughout the Botanic Garden until Aug. 1.

Membership: Get a membership here for reciprocal admission to other AHS gardens.

Bathrooms: yes

San Diego Botanic Garden
300 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas
760-436-3036
Online: sdbgarden.org

Point Loma Native Plant Garden

Enjoy the simplicity and quietness in this native plant garden tucked away in a residential neighborhood. You’ll likely have this place all to yourself because it’s not very well known and a little tricky to find. But once you get there, the kids can run ahead to explore while you catch a few beautiful moments to yourself.

Cost: Free

Bathrooms: no

Parking: Street parking only at Greene St. + Mendocino Blvd.

Point Loma Native Plant Garden
2275 Mendocino Blvd., Point Loma
619-297-7380
Online: sandiegoriver.org/point_loma.html

Water Conservation Garden

Learn how to create your own backyard oasis with the water conservation ideas you’ll find here. Even if you’re not planning to overhaul your own backyard, anyone can enjoy these gardens. This has been our favorite spot for years because the kids can wander at their own pace, watch the turtles, drive the concrete cars, play in the children’s dinosaur garden and clubhouse, dig in the sand box, look for butterflies in the butterfly pavilion and run through the spray misters.

Tip: Check their website for Butterfly Releases in May & June

Cost: $8/adults; $5/seniors 55+, students & military; $4/kids 3-17; Free ages 2 and under

Membership: Get a membership here for reciprocal admission to other AHS gardens.

Bathrooms: yes

Water Conservation Garden
12122 Cuyamaca College Dr. W., El Cajon
619-660-0614
Online: thegarden.org

Alta Vista Botanical Gardens

Get lost in over 16 different gardens within this garden! The fun children’s garden and discovery trail is just inside the front gate where you’ll find whimsical sculptures, crawl-through tunnels and flip over trivia question boxes. Meander past this as far as you want to go before looping back around to the front.

Cost: $5/non-members, $3/children ages 3-12, Free for ages 2 and under

Bathrooms: yes

Alta Vista Botanical Gardens
1270 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista
760-945-3954
Online: altavistabotanicalgardens.org

Mission Valley River Garden

Explore the wild flowers at this volunteer-managed garden in Mission Valley. The river is pretty overgrown so you can’t actually see it and the freeway noise is noticeable, but once you start wandering around you won’t even notice it while you’re there. The trails are well marked and will lead you around several loops down and back. You’ll likely have this place all to yourself because the large gates out front are locked so it looks closed. But it’s a public garden, so you can park in front of the gates and walk through the easy to miss side gate to start exploring.

Cost: Free

Bathrooms: no

Mission Valley River Garden
3376 Camino Del Rio N., Mission Valley
619-297-7380
Online: sandiegoriver.org/river_garden.html

Azalea Park Water Conservation Garden

Walk through this small water conservation garden with flat gravel trails that will loop around through recycled art sculptures. My kids favorites are the ones made out of car parts. You’ll find painted car hoods transformed into a tall flower and other car parts turned into a bull. Picnic tables and open grassy fields are behind the rec center for kids to run around.

Tip: You’ll find a playground tucked behind the rec center building.

Cost: Free

Bathrooms: yes

Azalea Park Water Conservation Garden
2596 Violet St., City Heights
619-235-1162
Online: sandiego.gov

Alcazar Garden

Designed after the gardens of Alcazar Castle in Seville, Spain, you’ll marvel at the intricate garden, ornate Moorish fountains and vibrant flowers year round. Take a few slow walks around while the kids have fun dipping their hands in the water fountains. Grab some take out from nearby Panama 66, or sip some coffee from Prado Perk or Daniel’s Coffee as you spend the rest of the day walking around Balboa Park.

Challenge: Try to find all 13 other gardens at Balboa Park!

Cost: Free

Bathrooms: yes

Balboa Park Alcazar Garden
1363 El Prado, Balboa Park
619-239-0512
Online: balboapark.org

––Bonnie Taylor

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How to Plant a Butterfly Garden No Matter Where You Live

by Amber GuetebierMay 25, 2020

Butterflies are more than just beautiful insects with wings: they play a vital role in the production of flowering plants which means without butterflies many, many plants would not flower, fruit and seed. Give these jewel-toned pollinators a place to call home with a few ideas for creating a butterfly garden no matter how much space you have. Scroll down to get the dirt.

Top 4 Ways Anyone Can Help

Be poison-free. Do not use pesticides of any kind, anywhere. This includes nearby lawns and other garden beds. We promise, where there’s a problem there is a non-toxic solution. Click here for ideas on pesticide-free bug control.

When in doubt, go native. Planting native flowering plants and shrubs help sustain native populations. We’ve offered a few suggestions here for butterfly-friendly flowering plants that do good in most climates (some of which may be native to your neck of the woods) and are generally not invasive, but it is always good to cross-check with your local garden center or native plant society. One man's annual can easily become another one's nightmare weed.

Milkweed it: The single best plants for Monarch butterflies is milkweed—specifically Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica). It grows in zones 9-11 (mostly California) but can be grown as a summer annual elsewhere. There are also many species of milkweed native to areas throughout the U.S. that are beneficial to all types of butterflies. Click here for the low-down on this important pollinator plant.

Gimme shelter: You can buy or make butterfly shelters that can be hung on the side of the building, near the community and school gardens and even in parks (be sure and get permission).

If You Have a Windowsill:

Even a single plant will help, but you can also consider buying or making a butterfly feeder. Here’s an easy how-to that takes just a few steps and is great for kiddos.

If you want to plant something in a window box, try nasturtiums and alyssum with zinnias and marigolds. The zinnias and marigolds grow straight and tall and the alyssum and nasturtiums trail, which makes a beautiful combo that butterflies love.

If you have a few pots:

Create a mini-oasis with just a few pots of soil on your stoop, sidewalk or front yard. Add plants that support the butterfly larvae as well as container plants that offer nectar for adult butterflies.

For the larvae: fennel (requires a larger pot) and borage (gets beautiful blue flowers and is edible!) as well as ornamental grasses that provide shelter.

For the adult butterflies: Salvia, marigolds, alyssum, nasturtiums, zinnia, oregano, and pincushion flowers (scabiosa) all do great in smaller containers. Many species of milkweed will grow in decent-sized pots and are so loved by butterflies the most common variety of this plant is often called “butterfly plant.” Also, most plants that are in the aster or daisy family are popular among the butterfly crowd but you'll want bigger pots for these, as well as any lavender or lantana you'd like to try.

If you have a few feet:

If you’re lucky enough to have a whole garden or garden bed, you can choose plants that spread out and like a bit more room to grow (though with the right sized container, many of these can be grown in pots). Be sure and plant taller plants and shrubs toward the back, medium-growth plants in the middle, and so on.

Tall plants: Hollyhocks, delphiniums, lilac bushes or any kind of flowering tree. Think cherry, apple, plum, etc, some salvia varieties, fennel, willow (great for larvae)

Plants that typically grow 1-3 ft high: Coneflower (echinacea), yarrow, salivas, lavender, milkweed (can grow higher in certain climates), globe thistle, bee balm, borage, lantana

Lower growing plants (under 1 ft or groundcovers): alyssum, nasturtiums, calendula, marigolds, zinnias, some verbena, oregano (warning! Oregano can become aggressive in many gardens), dianthus

Green Power! Earth Day Parties & Cleanups for Kids

by Maria ChambersApril 18, 2019

In the mood for spring greening? Monday, April 22 is Earth Day and prime time to show your love for the parks that make this a bright, happy place. Celebrate—and help spruce things up a bit—at family events happening everywhere from Humboldt Park to Skokie. Read on and get hands-on with cleanup and conservation.

Earth Day at Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie
Take the whole family to enjoy making crafts from recycled materials, nature walks, playing in the AR sandbox to see how topography shapes the environment, stories about nature and animals and more. Apr. 15 & 16, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Kent Fuller Air Station, 2400 Compass Rd., Glenview; Online: glenviewparks.org

photo: Jim Schulz/Chicago Zoological Society

Party for the Planet at Brookfield Zoo
Every day is Earth Day at this wild, wonderful spot. But one day a year, they throw a bash in honor of this big green world we live in. The day is filled with educational and fun activities for the entire family. Take along items for their recycling event. See their website for a complete list of accepted items. Apr. 23, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield; Online: czs.org

Party for the Planet at Cosley Zoo
This zoo is small (just five acres!) but mighty—especially for Earth Day. Explore various ways your family can get involved in conservation initiatives and enjoy live animal interactions. May 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton; Online: cosleyzoo.org

Humboldt Park Earth Day Celebration
The park spans 219 acres and every corner turns up a new discovery, including a boathouse, fishing area, garden, outdoor swimming pool and beach and they’re hosting their annual Chicago Earth Day Clean-Up.

Apr. 23, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 1440 N. Humboldt Dr., Humboldt Park; Online: humboldtparkportal.org

photo: Emily Oaks Nature Center

Emily Oaks Nature Center Earth Day Celebration
Skokie’s peaceful oasis is beckoning you to its annual bash. The entire family will celebrate nature with games and activities and earth-friendly foods and native plants will be available for sale.

Apr. 24, noon-4 p.m.; 650 Brummel St., Skokie; Online: skokieparks.org

Cradles to Crayons Earth Day Drive
This Earth Day, help protect the environment by recycling children’s items to Cradles to Crayons Chicago. Families can drop off donations of new and gently used clothing at collection sites in Chicago and nearby suburbs. Check their website for items accepted.

Ongoing; Online: cradlestocrayons.org/chicago

— Maria Chambers

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The Dalles: 5 Adventures to Put on Your To-Do List

by Carrie UffindellJune 5, 2016

Sun-drenched plateaus, Oregon’s oldest bookstore, a 13-foot Columbian mammoth — you and the kids will discover all this (and more!) in The Dalles, Oregon. Located about 75 miles east of Portland, this laid-back city makes an easy day trip or multi-day getaway. Read on to learn more about some of our favorite spots for family fun in The Dalles.

Hiking in the Tom McCall Preserve, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Tom McCall Preserve at Rowena

Get a bird’s eye view of the area (and stretch your legs) with a stop at the 231-acre Tom McCall Preserve, located on a plateau overlooking the Gorge. This is where the rainy, forested west side of the Cascades gives way to the grassy, sunny prairies of the east. You can also explore one of the preserve’s two trails: a one-mile trail that crosses the plateau, encircling a permanent pond, and the two-mile McCall Point Trail, which begins at the south side of the turnaround and gains around 1,000 feet in elevation.

Pro tip: Colorful wildflowers usually carpet the plateau from late February through June. No dogs or bicycles are allowed; this is to protect rare plants and sensitive wildlife.

Tom McCall Preserve
Hours: Open daily
Old Columbia River Scenic Highway (Highway 30), between Hood River and The Dalles
Online: nature.org

Exhibit at The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum

The exhibits in this impressive 48,200 square foot timber-and-glass facility explore regional plant and wildlife, eleven thousand years of local history and catastrophic floods that carved out the Gorge. An impressive life-sized Columbia mammoth dominates the Ice Age section of the center. Throughout are more displays where children can learn, touch, dress up and create, including the Kids Explorer Room. When you’re done inside check out the restored grounds, which are home to over 90 native plant species as well as walking paths, a pond and scenic overlooks.

Pro tip: Make a day of it by packing a picnic lunch or grabbing a bite to eat at the center’s Basalt Rock Café. (Think soups, sandwiches and burgers.) Live raptor presentations are in the main foyer every day.

Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center and Museum
Hours: Open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cost: $9/Adult; $7/Senior; $5/Ages 6-16; Free/Ages 5 and under
5000 Discovery Dr.
The Dalles, Or
541-296-8600
Online: gorgediscovery.org

Columbian Mammoth, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Sorosis Park

Set high above downtown, this 45-acre city park is filled with the usual amenities: picnic tables, BBQ pits, softball fields, tennis courts and a disc golf course. But what makes this park truly great for families is the sprawling, castle-themed wooden play structure where you can kick back and watch the kids frolic for hours.

Pro tip: If time permits, be sure to check out the park’s wide-angle views of the Gorge.

Sorosis Park
Hours: Open daily
300 E. Scenic Dr.
The Dalles, Or
541-296-9533
Online: nwprd.org/parks

On the Riverfront Trail, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Riverfront Trail

Walk, bike and/or stroll along this wide, ten-mile long paved path hugs the scenic southern bank of the Columbia River between the discovery center and The Dalles Dam. Along the way you’ll encounter a learning garden, Lewis and Clark’s Fort Rock campsite, downtown The Dalles, Riverfront Park and more. Pets and strollers are welcome.

Pro tip: Start from the northwest terminus at the discovery center. While the trail has little to no elevation, younger children may tucker out before reaching Riverfront Park six miles away. Fortunately, the trail is accessible approximately every mile between the center and the park. A portion of the trail near The Dalles Dam isn’t complete, between miles eight and ten.

The Riverfront Trail
541-296-9533
Online: nwprd.org/rivertrail

Browing at Klindt’s Booksellers, photo by Carrie Uffindell

Klindt’s Booksellers and Stationers

To visit Oregon’s oldest bookstore, which opened its doors in 1870, head to the heart of The Dalles’ historic downtown. Here you can browse amidst the original wooden bookshelves and cabinets. Kids of all ages will love Klindt’s excellent selection of children’s, middle reader and young adult fiction. Unsure where to start? The friendly and knowledgeable are happy to offer recommendations.

Pro tip: Klindt’s hosts regular young adult and middle reader author events and fiction festivals. See their website for more info.

Klindt Booksellers and Stationers
Hours: Mon. – Sat., 8 a.m.– 6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.– 4 p.m.
315 E. 2nd St.
The Dalles, Or
541-296-3355
Online: klindtsbooks.com

What are your favorite family spots in The Dalles? Tell us in the comments below!

— Carrie Uffindell

Win 2 Family Memberships to the Chattahoochee Nature Center

by writerredtriApril 6, 2013

Looking for a reason to get outdoors and get your kiddos to explore, learn, and discover the wonders of nature? We’re lucky to have the Chattahoochee Nature Center close by–it’s a great haven for families and the perfect outing for curious kids. One lucky winner will receive 2 Family Memberships to The Chattahoochee Nature Center, as part of Red Tricycle’s Big Peach Giveaway.

What’s the scoop on the Chattahoochee Nature Center?

The Chattahoochee Nature Center is a private non-profit 127-acre, award-winning, interpretive center dedicated to environmental education. Visitors can enjoy the new Gold level LEED certified Discovery Center Museum and Nature Exchange with hands on exhibits focused on telling the river’s story. Visitors are invited to bring a picnic, hike the woodland trails, meander through beautiful butterfly and native plant gardens or explore the river boardwalk, while viewing native animals. A documentary film “Re-Imagine the Chattahoochee” is shown daily in the theater and educational programs focus on ecology and natural science.

How to enter:

Enter now by going to the Red Tricycle Atlanta; if you haven’t already, “Like” us and a really short entry form will magically appear! Simply fill it out and you will be entered to win a two (2) Family Memberships valued at $160 ($80 each). Delivery is included in the prizing (continental US only).

Want to double, triple, and even quadruple your chances to win?

1. Invite friends! For each friend that enters and mentions your name, you will get an extra entry.

2. Tweet this post by simply clicking on the tweet button above.

3. “Like” the Chattahoochee Nature Center Facebook page and leave a comment on this page by using the comment box below.

The Chattahoochee Nature Center Family Memberships winner will be picked on June 1, 2013 at 9:00am PT.

Read itty bitty contest rules

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