Mornings are busy. These breakfast options for kids can help.
Whoever said breakfast is the most important meal of the day never encountered a squirmy toddler or a picky eater. To help fill those bellies first thing in the morning, we discovered a slew of delicious store-bought breakfast ideas that you’ll feel good giving to your kids and they’ll actually eat without putting up a fight. These easy breakfast ideas for kids go beyond just filling them up; they also multitask with good-for-them ingredients that you’ll appreciate (and they’ll never notice!). From new dairy-free yogurts to grab-and-go waffles, scroll down for easy breakfast ideas for kids ideas that’ll become staples in your morning routine.
GoGo squeeZ Morning smoothieZ
Made with whole milk yogurt, fruit, and oats in portable, BPA-free squeeze pouches, these shelf-stable (no fridge required!) smoothies are an excellent source of calcium, too.
Eating healthy food should be delicious! Evergreen Waffles not only packs tons of nutrient but it's completely void of fillers. The frozen breakfast is made with 100 percent whole wheat, flavored by spices, nuts, vegetables and fruits and is free from refined sugar, dairy, or preservatives. Kids will love the current flavors: Peanut Butter & Banana, Zucchini & Carrot, Mixed Berry & Almond and Chocolate Chip & Matcha.
Quaker Oats is getting creative, launching new flavors that kids won't be able to turn down. Every bowl of Dinosaur Eggs Oatmeal reveals hidden dino eggs as they stir!
Picky eaters will love Noosa's Whole Milk Vanilla Bean Yogurt. Made with live and active cultures, kiddos can mix in fresh fruit, granola, or a little sprinkle of cinnamon to make it their own. Also a great lunchbox option!
Your kids will love starting off their morning routine with this option from This Saves Lives. The GranolaPop is perfect for snacking or breakfast with fun flavors like Rainbow Sprinkles, Chocolate and Cinnamon Sugar. You can feel good about serving these to your kids each morning as each serving contains a full serving of fruits and vegetables, and all flavors are totally safe-for-school.
The first single-serve, gluten-free breakfast sandwich to hit the market, Brazi Bites' Homestyle Breakfast Sandwiches feature simple, clean ingredients like cage-free eggs and nitrate-free bacon, sandwiched between toasty slices of warm gluten-free bread for a delicious and satisfying homestyle taste that’s ready in minutes in the microwave!
Who doesn't love breakfast on the go? Oats Overnight makes morning meal prep a breeze: just mix your packet with milk, store in the fridge and enjoy spoon-free in the morning. Each flavor is gluten free, made with 100% whole grain oats, 20 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber. Try out brand new flavors every month, in addition to classics like Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana, Strawberries & Cream and Mocha Dream.
No spoon or milk required! Delicious, low-carb cereals are made with the highest quality, all-natural ingredients available and contain a blend of seven Plant Proteins and Fibers that are designed to keep you full longer. Gluten- and grain-free, vegan, zero sugar, Non-GMO, and have 9g of fiber per serving. Choose from Fruity, Chocolate Peanut Butter, (newest flavors), and other delicious options you can snack on all day long. Kids will love these, and so will you!
If you already love KIND products, you'll want to check out their granola! They're delicious, plus they're full of fiber and protein, so they'll be able to stay fueled all morning long.
As parents we’re always looking for healthy ways to add protein to our kids’ diets. Shake up your routine with Bear Naked Premium Protein Granola. Each serving dishes out 10 grams of protein. Choose from flavors including Oatmeal Cookie Crunch and Peanut Butter Toffee Crunch.
Breakfast with an interesting story, anyone? Turn to AYO Yogurt—this Almond Yogurt is made from organic, sun-grown California almonds at the Billings family ranch, a fourth-generation family farm. Each yogurt is dairy-free and nutrient-rich with flavors that include blueberry, strawberry, vanilla and peach. Find AYO in health stores and if you’re in California they’re sold at Ralphs.
We’re huge fans of siggi’s and were thrilled to learn that they recently launched a line of plant-based [Non] Dairy yogurts. Choose from five flavors: mango, mixed berry, vanilla and cinnamon, raspberry and strawberry. Like the original siggi’s their products include 40% less sugar than other leading yogurt alternatives and 3x more protein. For those allergic to dairy or are looking for a traditional yogurt alternative, we highly recommend this line (our kids were fans!).
Start your day with gr8nola—dish it out to little hands to practice hand/eye coordination or sprinkle on yogurt for the older kids. gr8nola features only 5 grams of non-refined sugar and all natural ingredients like organic coconut oil, whole grain oats, coconut flakes and sunflower seeds. The brand promises that all flavors (think: Black Coco Chia, Cinnamon Chai and Golden Spice) are GMO-free and contains no soy, dairy or refined sugars.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Spend the morning identifying dolphins in the wild and the afternoon on an airboat searching for alligators
If your next family vacation must-have list includes lots of sunshine, beautiful beaches, delicious local food, and tons of activities for kids, then Marco Island, FL, should top your list of places to visit. Whether you want to fly across the water on a speeding airboat or explore a barrier beach for all the shells you can carry, Marco Island offers something fun for everyone in the family.
Whether you fly into Ft. Myers or take a family road trip to the island, you will love your family vacation in Marco Island, FL. Many celebrities call Marco Island their home away from home, and it is easy to see why with the white sand beaches and epic sunsets. But there’s so much family fun this town has to offer, and we rounded up our favorites.
Best Things to Do on Marco Island with Kids
The Dolphin Explorer
Angelica Kajiwara
There's nothing quite like seeing wild dolphins jumping and playing in the wake of a boat, and this eco-tour delivers. With over 100 dolphin sightings a year, you're sure to enjoy your family-friendly cruise with The Dolphin Explorer. Both the guide and captain are knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions throughout the tour. After you board the boat, your kids can grab a clipboard and answer questions about the dolphins they see to receive a junior scientist badge. Before returning to the marina, you'll stop at Keewaydin Island to explore the barrier beach and collect intact conch shells and sand dollars. You'll leave with a full shell bag and a souvenir photo.
Sun-n-Fun Lagoon
Angelica Kajiwara
If you prefer sand-free water fun, Sun-n-Fun Lagoon in Naples, FL is an excellent addition to your vacation itinerary. The tiniest swimmer will enjoy the zero-entry wading pool and splash area for kids under 6. And, of course, everyone will want to float around the lazy river or swim in one of the many pools. With life jackets and tubes available, you won't need to pack as much gear. Also, the lifeguards are very attentive and friendly. When your crew is ready for lunch, head to the parking lot and visit the Chef Global food truck. His gourmet fusion menu is delicious, and the homemade passion fruit lemonade is perfect on a hot day.
Pro tip: Leave your cooler at home, as no outside food is allowed in the waterpark.
Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center
Angelica Kajiwara
It's rare to find a place where you can visit a mangrove aquarium, hold a sea star and take a stroll across an observation bridge overlooking Henderson Creek, but we found all that and more at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. Take a self-guided tour through this educational attraction, both inside and outside. Watch butterflies land on native plants, and learn about local history as you explore the center's trails. Remember to stop by the classroom in the art gallery for an educational DIY craft.
Wooten's Everglades
Angelica Kajiwara
Get ready for a fast and furious family adventure aboard one of the large airboats just outside of Everglades National Park. Nature puts on a show as you race through the swamps filled with alligators and birds with Wooten's Everglades. Knowledgeable guides take you through the mangroves and ensure you get the best view possible. After the airboat ride, walk over to see the alligator show and take your turn holding a baby alligator. Then, stroll through the animal sanctuary where they house and rehabilitate exotic animals.
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Angelica Kajiwara
Don't plan to get too far into the zoo after arriving because your kids will want to stop and climb around on the playground inside the entrance at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. It's a great place to stop and eat as there are tables and shade in the same area. Remember to snap a photo of the zoo map, check when you can meet the keepers, and take a boat ride to see the primates. And, of course, everyone will want to take turns feeding the giraffes after you've explored the beautiful outdoor enclosures and exhibits.
South Marco Beach
Angelica Kajiwara
Known for some of the most beautiful beaches in Southwest Florida, Marco Island delivers the perfect family-friendly beach day at South Marco Beach. With easy public parking ($10 per day) and only a five-minute walk to the beach, you'll be laying out towels and blowing up beach balls in no time. The water is often calm enough to paddleboard, and the white sand is lined with beautiful shells and sand dollars.
Pro tip: The city provides complimentary life jackets along the public beach access available to borrow throughout your trip.
Veterans Community Park
Angelica Kajiwara
When your kids are ready to burn off some energy, head to the newest park in Collier County, Veterans Community Park, where they can climb on the well-lit playground, skate on the covered rink, or play fetch with your fur baby in Rover Run. So grab your gear and enjoy a friendly game of Pickleball, Tennis, or Racquetball together. Remember to check their website for information on family movie nights and local events.
Where to Eat on Marco Island with Kids
Angelica Kajiwara
Deep Lagoon The locals call their food "coastal casual", and you'll want to get a table early to miss the local crowds. This restaurant offers the best marina-side seat in town to catch the sunset over the water, and the happy hour menu is a great way to try a little of everything at a great price. The crab rangoon tops the list of favorites, but your kids will have lots to choose from off the kids' menu.
City Seafood If you want the freshest seafood, you'll want to order the stone crab (sold by the claw) caught daily at this restaurant. While the restaurant seems rough around the edges, the food is excellent, and the casual atmosphere is perfect after a long day exploring the Everglades. You can even try fried alligator. This waterfront restaurant is the perfect stop after the airboat ride at Wooten's.
Mango's Dockside Bistro This restaurant offers the best in family-friendly dining on Marco Island. In addition, you can skip setting your alarm on vacation because they serve breakfast until 1 p.m. every day. It's also an excellent place for lunch and has lots to offer on the kids' menu. You can get a great view of the marina at one of the patio tables outside.
Italian Deli and Market Try this authentic Italian deli for colossal pizza slices and amazing Italian dishes when you've had your fill of local seafood. You can dine in or grab food to go; either way, everyone in your crew will enjoy the food at this restaurant. Remember to stop at the dessert case and pick out a sweet treat made fresh daily.
Where to Stay on Marco Island with Kids
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Sunset Cove Resort
Angelica Kajiwara
With less than 40 villas, the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Sunset Cove Resort skips the crowds and delivers family-friendly luxury. The three-bedroom Signature Collection Villa offers plenty of space to spread out and family-friendly amenities such as a fully stocked kitchen and an in-villa washer and dryer. Thankfully, you won't need to pack as much gear as usual because you can borrow bikes, pool gear, games, movies, and more from the front desk. And the zero entry pool and hot tub (or your screened-in balcony) are the perfect places to enjoy the gorgeous sunsets over the water.
Are you ready to see wild dolphins? Check this out.
Marco Island is the ideal family destination with the perfect balance of epic adventures and lower-key family fun. Check out the Paradise Coast tourism website for more ideas on what to do on your next weekend adventure.
Editor’s note: This trip was hosted by Paradise Coast, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! Discover just some of the rich, cultural heritage of the Latinx community that helps make LA such a great place.
Hispanic Heritage month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15) gives us the chance to celebrate this rich and diverse culture, and with an emphasis on Hispanic Heritage month activities taking place around LA, there’s never been a better time to show your support for our local, hard-working Hispanic-owned businesses. Whether you’re in the mood to try a new restaurant, find a great cup of coffee or stock up on some unique gifts for an upcoming celebration, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite, family-friendly shops and restaurants to support.
The Best Latinx-Owned Restaurants, Bakeries & Cafes around LA
Sonoratown: Owners, Teodoro Diaz-Rodriguez, Jr. and Jennifer Feltham, opened the doors to Sonoratown in 2016—wanting to pay homage to the small border town in Mexico where Teo grew up. Having called DTLA their home for many years, the pair hoped to contribute to the area’s revitalization by creating a taqueria that was different from the usual fare served to office workers in the area. Their namesake tacos served in the style of San Luis Colorado, Sonora—a part of Northern Mexico known for having the most delicious carne asada cooked over a mesquite wood fire, along with handmade flour tortillas quickly became a darling of the LA food scene. This past summer, a second Sonoratown location opened in Mid-City and is proving to be just as popular as the original.
Guelaguetza: On the edge of Koreatown is one of the best Oaxacan restaurants in the country and is even a James Beard award winner. The Lopez family opened Guelaguetza in 1994 using their family mole recipes from Oaxaca. It became one of the first restaurants in LA to feature Oaxacan dishes and meant the world to immigrants from the area by reminding them of home. That authentic feeling soon won over other customers as well and the restaurant became a huge hit. All mole is made in house from scratch and many of the ingredients are brought in directly from Oaxaca—giving the food its truly unique flavor.
3014 W. Olympic Blvd. Koreatown Online:ilovemole.com
Teddy's Red Tacos: This was a must on our list as Teddy’s Red Tacos are some of the tastiest around. Owner, Teddy Vasquez, started as an Uber driver who often carried around his family’s authentic recipe of Consume Birria Tacos in his trunk. Passengers started inquiring about what smelled so divine, and a booming business was born. Teddy opened his first taco truck off Slauson by the railroad tracks then gained such a loyal following that he now owns eight retail locations around SoCal with two more opening soon.
La Mascota Bakery: For some of the most to-die-for tamales around, La Mascota hits the mark every time. With mouthwatering flavors like Red Chile with Pork, Green Chile with Chicken, Veggies in Banana Leaf, Sweet with Pineapple and many others—it’s no wonder this bakery has been a beloved Boyle Heights mainstay for many generations. In addition to their outstanding tamales, La Mascota offers an impressive selection of pan dulce, cookies, cakes, and flan.
Mariscos Jalisco: Raul Ortega has operated Mariscos Jalisco, a highly celebrated food truck, for 21 years in the Boyle Heights neighborhood with additional locations in DTLA, Pomona and West LA. Serving up some of the freshest seafood in town at an affordable price, it’s no wonder you’ll always find a long line of customers waiting. One dish that’s a must try is the Taco de Camaron—a deep-fried shell filled with gigantic shrimp topped with homemade red salsa and fresh avocado—you’ll thank us later.
La Monarca Bakery and Café: La Monarca Bakery has 12 locations throughout LA and offers lunch and dinner, as well as handmade pan dulce, concha, cakes, and organic Mexican coffee. Owners, Ricardo Cervantes and Alfredo Livas, grew up in Monterey, Mexico and later met at Stanford Business School where they formed the idea for La Monarca. When choosing their next locations, they look for Latino communities in need that are also preferably near public transit so they can hire locally from the area. Select signature retail products are also available for purchase in store or through their website.
Gusto Bread: In 2020, baker Arturo Enciso and his partner Ana Belen Salatino opened a cozy panaderia called Gusto Bread in the Retro Row area of Long Beach. Specializing in pan and pan dulce made only with masa madre (naturally leavened sourdough), Gusto Bread serves up a delicious variety of loaves, concha, long breads and much more. In fact, Food + Wine rated Gusto Bread as one of the top 100 Bakeries in America. But more important than the accolades, the owners hope to foster a strong sense of community connectedness and sustainability through their business.
Nonna's Empanadas: At the Original Farmer’s Market, Chef Eddy Ekmejian has taken over the business of running Nonna’s Empanadas from his late father Mario who was born in Argentina. Eddy turns out some of the most fabulous empanadas around by following the traditions his Great Great Grandmother. With a fantastic selection of flavors to choose from like Samosa Beef, Salsa Verde Chicken, Mac and Cheese, Shrimp and on the sweeter side—Nutella, part of the fun is figuring out which ones to eat first. Nonna’s also has locations on W. 3 St. and at Americana at Brand.
Little Barn Coffee House: Despite the challenges of launching a new business during the pandemic, Joana Rubio and Seleste Diaz opened Little Barn Coffee house—a 100% vegan café—with much success. They specialize in vegan comfort foods and make their dishes from fresh in-house ingredients every day. With delectable specialties like pan dulce, polvorones, maple fennel sausage biscuits, Mexican wedding cookies, oat horchata cold brews, Mexican hot chocolate, and hazelnut lattes, they strike a unique balance between Latin flavors and American tastes. As a proud LGBTQ Latinx woman-owned café, their top priority is making every customer feel welcomed and nourished.
The Boy & The Bear: Andres Pineros founded The Boy & The Bear Coffee Roastery in Villavicencio, Columbia in 2012 as a pop-up shop specializing in Columbian coffee. When he moved to LA in 2013, he knew he wanted to establish his brand in a city known not only for its deep desire for premium coffee, but also for its openness to different cultures. Today, Pineros has four café locations around the SoCal area with a fifth coming soon to Sherman Oaks. He hopes to continue to offer an elevated Columbian coffee experience to Angelenos and a place where they will always feel at home.
Patria Coffee: This small-batch coffee roaster in Compton is run by Deana and Geoffrey Martinez. The pair offers a fab selection of unique beverages to suit almost any taste, including Oat Milk Coffee Slushies, Oat-Chatas, Ibarra Mexican Mochas, lattes, teas and a delish selection of pastries. Best of all, this shop has a true neighborhood feel and is bound to become a regular stop during your week.
Tierra Mia Coffee: With dozens of convenient locations to pick from throughout the Southland, Tierra Mia Coffee is a great choice when you need a good cup of jo. Ulysses Romeo founded the company with one mission—to offer customers the highest quality and freshest Latin-inspired coffee around. Because they use the pour over method for all their drinks, the coffee has uniquely strong flavor, but is never bitter. Some of our faves include the Cubano con Leche, the Mocha Mexicano and the Horchate Frappe.
Mateo's Ice Cream & Fruit Bars: This traditional, fresh-fruit paleta shop from Oaxaca brings nothing less than their A-game when it comes to frozen desserts. In 2000, late founder, Priciliano Mateo opened the first Mateo’s location in Mid-City with hopes of sharing his beloved childhood treats with the LA community. His family carries on that tradition today with four locations and over 30 flavors of paletas on the menu like mango with chile, smoked milk, pistachio, and coconut.
Los Alpes Ice Cream Parlor: Since 1979, Los Aples owner, Margarita Flores, has been treating Angelenos to some of the best handcrafted frozen treats you’ll ever devour. This Huntington Park institution serves everything from paletas, ice cream and fruit bars to shakes and Mangoneada. With flavors like passion fruit, cranberry-pomegranate, chocolate abuelita, and hibiscus-raspberry just to name a few—your tastebuds will not be disappointed.
Party Art Community: This party, stationery, and gift shop focuses on socially conscious goods and workshops. Owner, Destine Escobedo, makes a point to invest in local women vendors, as well as those from the BIPOC, Femme and Queer communities for inclusion in the products her shop carries. She always keeps in mind that her success can help propel the success of others. From colorful balloon bouquets and piñatas to cheeky gifts, colorful greeting cards and stationery—it’s truly one of the most unique shops in town.
Lil' Libros: After realizing there was a shortage of bilingual books available for littles, two enterprising LA mothers – Arian Stein and Patty Rodriguez – created Lil’ Libros. As an independent bilingual children's book publisher, Lil’ Libros encourages kids to read in two languages while teaching them about Latin American culture and history. Kiddos are immersed in colorful worlds of storytelling about figures like Frida Kahlo, Basquiat, Celia Cruz and Pelé, as well as books about San Juan, Oaxaca, Havana and Bogotá, among many others.
Quiero Prints: What originally started as a quinceañera invitation shop, has blossomed into a popular stationery and gift shop based in East LA. Quiero Prints sells a wide range of Latinx-themed products ranging from witty tees and stickers to vibrant stationery and mugs. If you’re looking for a gift that’s different than the norm, this is the perfect place to shop.
GRL Collective: After leaving her multicultural marketing agency job in LA, Kristine Rodriguez flew halfway across the world to volunteer with women and girls’ empowerment in India. This life-changing experience inspired her to later launch GRL Collective—a lifestyle brand that sells playful jewelry, tees, stickers, tote bags and more where 20-percent of all profits fund girls’ education in India.
Sweet Llamita: When Brenda Castillo searched every premium stationery store and still couldn’t find any greeting cards to connect with her mom and dad who are Latin immigrants, she decided it was time to fill that void. Castillo’s greeting card company, Sweet Llamita, features super chic bilingual cards that are culturally relevant and speak to Latin Heritage and experience.
Hija De Tu Madre: Founder and designer, Patty Delgado, created apparel and accessory line, Hija De Tu Madre, to encompass the intersection of Mexican and American identity and provide customers with a sense of identity and belonging. With a fun selection of t-shirts, tote bags, jewelry and stunning denim jackets embroidered with the image of Frida Kahlo or the Mexican flag, pieces often double as wearable art.
Hedley & Bennett: After cooking in some of LA’s very best restaurants, Ellen Marie Bennett saw a need for better aprons that could stand up to the toughest conditions while still looking fabulous. She set out to make an apron that was not only functionally better with comfortably placed straps, strategic pocket placement and expert stitching, but one that could be worn by everyone from the executive chef of a Michelin starred restaurant to the home cook baking banana bread. Her company, Hedley & Bennett, now makes some of the best aprons on the market with a variety of stunning designs, including smaller aprons for aspiring kid chefs.
Other Books: On a mission to promote literature that is underrepresented, Denice Diaz and Adam Bernales started Other Books—an independent bookstore in Boyle Heights with a large Spanish language collection. The shop features a wide range of authors for both kids and adults and sells used and new editions in English and Spanish. Other Books also hosts writing workshops, readings and signings, as well as open mic poetry from time to time.
2006 E. Caesar Chavez Ave. Boyle Heights Online:otherbooksla.com
Who doesn’t love a doughnut? There’s nothing quite like starting a day that is sure to be filled with play, with a tasty morning treat. Whether you call them doughnuts or donuts, prefer them round or bar-shaped, chocolate or plain, cake or classic—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these treats for breakfast. And Portland offers a treasure trove of yummy goodness for every taste bud (including vegan ones!). Read on for our top picks!
Gorgeous treats in trendy flavors like Blueberry Bourbon Basil, or Passion Fruit Cocoa Nib, these large brioche-style treats ousted Voodoo from it’s top popularity spot a few years ago. Now stretching into the PDX Airport and even Southern California, the seven Portland locations are still a great place to take visiting family. Kiddos will demand their own (huge) donut, so get them in less envelope-pushing flavors like Chocolate Crunch, Cinnamon Sugar, or even good ol’ Original Glaze.
Secret tip: while it’s not as photo-worthy as the others, try the apple cider fritter—it’s a delicious apple-studded taste bomb with a satisfying fried crunch!
Vegan options available 7 Portland Locations (including the Airport!) Online: bluestardonuts.com
Coco Donuts
Based on a secret 30 year old family recipe, these doughnuts are just like the ones you loved growing up. And you'll find lovingly crafted coffee like pour-over and cold brew. You’ll be caffeinated, and everyone gets doughnuts—it's a win!
If you’re unimpressed by a flashy glaze or wild new flavor, hurry to Annie’s where the iconic sign is waiting with a promise of Old Portland. Inside, you won’t find a lot of space, but you will find maple bars, crullers, and glazed or cream-filled fried doughnuts that are simple and delicious. It’s what you expect from a place that’s been in the neighborhood forever, satisfying those who just want a darn good doughnut.
Though competition in the Rose City is rising, Portland’s classic titillating doughnut shop still slings their wild treats every day. Kids will love the cereal-covered raised ones, with Fruit Loops, Captain Crunch, or Cocoa Puffs. Or maybe the Memphis Mafia, a banana fritter dripping in chocolate sauce and peanut butter.
These little guys are made to order right in front of you, expertly fried then dipped, glazed, and topped with the specialty of the day. Flavors include cinnamon sugar, honey, bacon, and everyone’s favorite: gooey nutella. They’re perfect for little mouths—the small size makes it easy to treat everyone without committing to an overload of sugar. And for parents, the house-made chai blends are a delicious touch. The line at their Fremont storefront may stretch outside, but it moves fast, and tables clear out regularly. Peek down the hall near the counter for some storybooks and activities to keep the little ones busy while you wait.
Native Portlanders have been going here since 1974, swinging by the red and white checkered hut to load up on maple bars, fritters, and old-fashioneds before a day on the mountain. Nothing beats those bear claws and a cup of hot coffee in the morning! All made fresh, they’re best eaten that same day (though that won’t be a problem).
Vegans, raise your hands! Lovers of delicious donuts, raise yours! Whether both your hands are raised or not, you’ll want to head here for some yummy treats. You won’t even know they’re vegan—promise! With enticing flavors like strawberry milk, french toast, banana bread, thai tea, and London fog (with earl grey tea glaze!), you’ll be won over pretty easily, to be honest. Just like everyone else—these guys sell out fast.
Closed Tuesdays 8201 SE Powell Dr. Portland, OR Online: doedonuts.com
Delicious Donuts
Are you up at the crack of dawn to nurture and love your sweet little babies? Don’t worry, this shop is, too--you can find them taking their sweet babies out of the ovens as early as 5 am! And if you go, be sure to get there before 9am for the choicest treats, because they sell out fast! In business for over 11 years, the simple storefront hides a large menu of options from cake, to crullers, raised, bars, and old fashioned.
While this beloved shop is a small chain, Heavenly Donuts is literally heavenly providing customers with gorgeous glazed doughnuts that have the fluffiness of a cake and the sugar coating we all crave when with think of the most delicious donuts. This spot also serves up an impressive array of maple bars, long johns, cinnamon twists and sprinkled donuts so you can create a variety box that will please everyone at home.
Los Angeles has an incredibly rich, LGBQT history—including hosting one of the first LGBQT parades on Hollywood Blvd. in 1970. To celebrate Pride Month, we’re pulling together a list of historically significant places where you can visit and learn more about these landmark achievements, along with some kid-friendly Pride Month events you can join all month long (also don’t miss our must-read list of LGBTQ books for kids). Check out our list below and make sure to check back often as updates are happening regularly!
photo: iStock
Pride Events & Activities in Los Angeles
Pride Night: LA Galaxy vs. Austin FC May 29:The Galaxy will host Pride Night, presented by Sherwin-Williams, on Sunday, May 29 against Austin FC to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. Experience special activations throughout the match in collaboration with Galaxy supporters, the Los Angeles LGBT Center and MLS’ Soccer For All program. The National Anthem will be performed by and Casey Breves avid supporters of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, there will be an Angel City Brigade Clothing Drive where donations will benefit the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Youth Center as well as a Dignity Health Glendale Memorial Hospital Food Drive. Bins at each entrance to the stadium. Donations will go to the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Pride Pantry. Event details.
LGBTQ+ Night at Dodger Stadium Jun. 3: The Dodgers have again teamed up with their long-time community nonprofit partner LA Pride to host their annual LGBTQ+ Pride Night at Dodger Stadium, presented by Blue Shield of California. This celebration of Los Angeles’ LGBTQ+ community will include drink specials in the pavilion bars, a special recognition of frontline workers from Los Angeles’ LGBTQ+ community and additional surprise guests featured during pregame ceremonies. The fun also continues post-game with Friday Night Fireworks, set to music mixed by DJ Bowie Jane. A special event ticket package includes a ticket to the game and an exclusive Dodgers LGBTQ+-themed jersey! Event details.
Light up the Night for Equality Viewing Party Jun. 3: Venice Pride cordially invites you to the Light Up the Night for Equality Viewing Party at Hotel Erwin’s High Rooftop Lounge to witness the L.A. premiere and illumination of Yvette Mattern’s Global Rainbow laser installation across the California Coast by a special guest. Event details.
Venice Pride Festival Jun. 4-5: Venice Pride Festival is returning and open to all ages! LA’s beloved grassroots LGBTQ+ celebration grows to two days and moves to a brand new beachside location: Venice Beach Recreation Center. Event details.
Let’s Celebrate LBGTQIA Voices! Jun. 6: Join Central Library for an online book club for teens to discuss a YA Fiction or Non-Fiction book that features LGBTQIA voices. Email teens@lapl.org from your school email address at least one hour before the program to request the link. Homeschool students, note the program name and “Homeschool” in the email subject line, make sure to include your name and grade level. Event details.
COME4ME by Kim Chi’ Donuts at Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts Jun. 10-30: To celebrate Pride Month, Hollywood favorite Danny Trejo, and his donut shop Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts, are teaming up with RuPaul’s Drag Race alum and cosmetics queen Kim Chi of KimChi Chic Beauty& KimChi Eats to create a colorful and delicious donut inspired by her iconic lewks. Head to Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts in Hollywood to taste the duo’s limited-time ‘COME4ME by Kim Chi’ donut that will be filled with taro cream cheese and topped with a white chocolate taro glitter glaze, passion fruit buttercream, candied dragon fruit and passion fruit flakes ($4). A portion of the proceeds from ‘COME4ME by Kim Chi’ will be donated to Seniors Fight Back, a charity whose mission is to stop hate against AAPI seniors. Event details.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Jun. 11: The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County will host its first-ever Queer Family Day, featuring a rainbow-themed scavenger hunt, dino dance party, drag queen storytime, up-close encounters with behind-the-scenes museum collections, and more! The museum welcomes guests to wear their favorite shade of green to show off your nature-loving pride. This event is free with museum admission and for members. Event details.
LA Pride in the Park
Jun. 11: Christina Aguilera is headlining LA Pride in the Park, the music event with two stages, sponsor activations, exhibitors, and plenty of food and drink at Los Angeles State Historic Park. Gates open at 1 p.m., and the party goes until 11 p.m. Event details.
LA Pride Parade Jun. 12:The 2022 LA Pride Parade is back! Cheer on this iconic LGBTQ+ procession along with 130 contingents of marchers, performers, nonprofits, celebrities, and the businesses that proudly celebrate their LGBTQ+ employees as they walk in the 52nd Annual LA Pride Parade. This year’s theme, “Love Your Pride” which highlights “ Los Angeles as a global city whose communities love in every language. This Pride season, we’re inclusively embracing LA’s diversity by writing a love letter to LA in many languages.” Make sure to visit “Pride Village,” which is located next to the start and finish of the Parade. Vendor booths, activities and Ferris wheel will be featured. Admission is free. Event details.
Inaugural Pride Village Street Fair Jun. 12: This eclectic, family-friendly all-day street fair will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and will welcome patrons to continue their Pride celebrations during and after the iconic parade. The family-friendly festivities will include two stages for music and performances throughout the day, including various DJs, a performance by RuPaul’s Drag Race All Star winner, Alaska, and more, as well as a Ferris wheel, pop-up roller skating rink, beer and bar garden, food trucks, local vendors, festive programming, and lots of love. Event details.
Bingo Night With Drag Queen Pickle Jun. 13: Kick off the “Express Yourself” Summer Reading Challenge with a fabulous Bingo Night, hosted by Drag Queen Pickle. Pickle, organizer of the local Drag Queen Story Hour, brings all of the glamour and humor that a rollicking game of bingo really needs. Event details.
Pride Paddle Jun. 26: The Southbay LGBTQ Center and The Portofino Hotel & Marina in collaboration with Harbor Vibes are hosting the second-annual Pride Paddle, taking place in the King Harbor Marina. Starting from the public hand launch behind Seaside Lagoon, paddlers will traverse through the harbor to the King Harbor Yacht Club and back with fun stops along the way. For anyone who is new to paddle boarding, support and instruction will be available to you during the event. Post-paddle, head to BALEEN Kitchen featuring a signature drink; The Flamingo consisting of a Watermelon Sorbet, homemade Coconut Orgeat, Drake’s Organic Vodka, Pineapple juice and fresh mint, with a fruity pebbles rim. 10% of all proceeds going to the Southbay LGBTQ Center. Event details.
SaMo PRIDE 2022
Santa Monica Pier, Downtown Santa Monica, and Santa Monica Place, in collaboration with the City of Santa Monica and Santa Monica Travel and Tourism, present SaMo PRIDE: a month of rainbows and festivities to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, individuality, inclusivity and acceptance. For the month of Jun., The Pier, Santa Monica Place, Third Street Promenade and surrounding businesses will celebrate Pride Month with a vibrant light installation dubbed “Miles of Pride,” which spans miles of city streets, illuminating the sky with a rainbow of colors. These installations will serve as a backdrop for a full calendar of events that bring together community, families and supporters from around the world. With a focus on family-friendly art, events and community connection, City of Santa Monica partners will host PRIDE markets, story hours, live music and so much more to help celebrate love in every color. Event details.
Big Sunday Volunteers
Big Sunday has teamed up with LA Pride for Pride Makes a Difference, a series of more than 300 helping events all over town in Jun. Event details.
Made With Pride Marketplace Every Fri.-Sun. in Jun., Santa Monica Place is partnering with Streetlet, an opportunity-matching and growth engine for small business owners and makers, to bring a pop-up Made with PRIDE Marketplace to the center. This unique marketplace is part of the annual SaMo PRIDE, a month-long citywide celebration focused on family-friendly displays and activities that safely celebrate the City of Santa Monica’s inclusive and diverse spirit. Once again PRIDE events will be anchored by “Miles of Pride,” a vibrant light installation that spans the Promenade and Santa Monica Place, illuminating the sky with a rainbow of colors to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, individuality, inclusivity and acceptance. Event details.
Teen Grab-and-Go Crafts: Rainbow Garland During the month of Jun., teens and tweens ages 11-18 years can pick up a craft kit with all the supplies needed to make a rainbow garland. Visit the North Hollywood Amelia Earhart Regional Library Reference Desk during library hours to get your kit. Event details.
SAYGAY for PRIDE
In partnership with the It Gets Better Project, the rebranded Banter by Piercing Pagoda has created a limited-edition nameplate necklace that reads ‘SayGAY’, with 100% of sales, up to $25,000, benefitting the IGBP’s mission of uplifting and empowering lives of the LGBTQ+ youth around the globe through the month of June. Help fight harmful legislation being passed around the US and supporting everyone’s right to live and love freely! Details can be found here.
The Black Cat, formally a bar and now a gastropub located in Silver Lake, was the scene of a brutal police raid on New Year's Eve in 1966. Two months later, in 1967, in response to the raid, a peaceful protest was held, noted as "the site of the first documented LGBTQ civil rights demonstration in the nation." In 2008, The Black Cat was recognized by the City of Los Angeles as a Historic Cultural Monument.
This outdoor staircase in Silver Lake, was named after the Mattachine Society—one of the world's first gay rights clubs, founded in 1950. This staircase was how members reached the meetings, hosted by Henry Hay, in his home.
Once you climb to the top, you'll be rewarded with a stunning view of the Silver Lake Reservoir.
2355 Cove Ave. Los Angeles
LA Public Library
The LA Public Library is an integral resource for LGBQT history where you can access videos, maps, books, films and more that showcase the struggle for equal rights in the gay community. If you can't make it to the library, you can still check out resources thanks to hoopla digital–a free resource that allows valid library card holders to access and download ebooks, movies, audiobooks, comics and tv shows to your device. They have an extensive collection of LGBTQ+ media you can access including children's books like, "A Boy Named Queen" and "From Archie to Zak."
Stocked with over 80,000 titles, Children's Book World is "committed to celebrate diversity, knowledge, and enrichment. A world where every child sees themselves on our shelves." Recognized year after year for this achievement, they are also know for their "book selection that is open-minded (gay-friendly, multi-cultural) and well-organized, divided into age-appropriate sections."
This is the world's largest research library dedicated to honor and archive LGBTQ history. Located near the USC campus, exhibitions, art shows and cinematic screenings are hosted here as well as at their gallery space, ONE Gallery, located in West Hollywood.
ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archive 909 West Adams Blvd. Los Angeles
Los Angeles was first settled by the Tongva tribe and called the area Yang Na. But what makes this noteworthy is that the Tongva people were LGBTQ friendly. LA’s first tribes believed in "gay marriages, transgender lifestyles and that homosexuality was determined in utero" even going as far as celebrating homosexuals as “two spirited people and thought of them more as gifted than as outcasts." Look for a plaque in the plaza area honoring these ancestors.
Tia Chucha's independent bookstore specializes in providing great books on "Xicanx and Latinx history and literature, indigenous knowledge, bilingual children’s books, contemporary and social commentary issues, as well as Spanish-language, queer/LGBTQIA, art, poetry, antiracism, social change, and much more."
Located in Lincoln Park, this was the first publicly-funded AIDS monument in the country. In this serene space, you'll see a stainless steel archway as well as eight panels—six of the panels depict life with AIDS in the Latino community, and two granite panels will eventually display the names of 8,000 people lost to AIDS.
"Since 1969 the Los Angeles LGBT Center has cared for, championed, and celebrated LGBT individuals and families in Los Angeles and beyond. Today the Center provides services for more LGBT people than any other organization in the world, offering programs, services, and global advocacy that span four broad categories: Health, Social Services and Housing, Culture and Education, Leadership and Advocacy."
Maker sure to stop by and catch a show at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, the Center's state-of-the-art educational, cultural, and social center.
The Village at Ed Gould Plaza 1125 N McCadden Pl. Los Angeles Online: lalgbtcenter.org
Los Angeles LGBT Center 1625 N. Schrader Blvd. Los Angeles Online: lalgbtcenter.org
The Celebration Theatre
The Celebration Theatre was founded in 1982 and is the only professional theater with the "mission of creating an outlet for LGBTQIA+ voices in Los Angeles."
Must-See:Dear Harvey: Stories of Harvey Milk is playing Sun. May 22-Sun. May. 29.
Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to shower Mom with love, appreciation and gifts. This year, why not celebrate the mother figure in your life with a gift that’s good for mom and the world? Our list of eco-friendly gifts are guaranteed to make mom smile, plus they’re good for the community. Show the mom, grandma, aunt or other special person in your life how much she means to you with a sustainable product from a local Seattle shop this Mother’s Day.
A beautiful scented candle signals a serene moment even on the busiest of days. Seattle born and raised, Sukie turned her candle-making passion into a business in 2018. Today, Sukie’s Candle Co. produces non-toxic, vegan, eco-friendly candles with 40-plus hour burn times in exotic fragrance collections including citrus, fruity, floral and spice/woody. Sukie’s uses 100% pure soy wax, derived domestically from American farmers. Plus, all of her candles are infused with natural essential oils (phthalate-free!) and individually hand-poured in reusable glass containers. Shop online or visit a local retailer to purchase a little serenity for Mom.
For over 20 years, woman-owned bumble B design has curated themed gift baskets, bags and boxes. Surprise Mom with a basket full of her favorite goodies collected by bumble B design. It will include high quality, eco-friendly products that are creatively packaged into gifts suited for every taste and interest. Choose from a variety of themes including Champagne Cheers, Seattle Snacker Basket or Chocolate Gratitude Box (featuring organic, Fair Trade certified, Fran’s Chocolates). Eco-friendly features include reusable drinkware and bags, locally-sourced products and recycled packaging whenever possible. bumble B design hand delivers to most Seattle locations, or you can pick up from its local gift studio. Shipping is available for gifts that don’t contain alcohol.
It’s always a good time for pampering! Eco Collective offers an extensive selection of sustainable self-care products that make the perfect gift for Mother's Day. This Seattle-based online shop offers skin care, bath and body, hair care and wellness products including sun care, facial masks and more. Eco Collective’s products are responsibly sourced, plastic-free and kind to people, animals and the planet. All packaging is recyclable, compostable or reusable to help reduce the company's carbon footprint. Take care of a special mom in your life while taking care of the planet.
Not sure what to get Mom, but want to find a special Mother's Day gift with a purpose? Look no further than Fair Trade Winds. From felt flowers to bird houses, jewelry to food products, you’ll find the perfect gift. Bonus: Fair Trade Winds has put together a Mother’s Day Gift Guide if you need some inspiration. Purchasing fair trade products supports positive change by emphasizing equality and sustainability, helping artisans, families and communities become self-sustaining. At Fair Trade Winds, a significant percentage of your purchase goes directly to the creators, all over the world. Check out their extensive online catalog or stop by their Ballard gift shop to find that just-right gift.
5329 Ballard Ave. N.W. Seattle, WA 98107 206-743-8500 Online: fairtradewinds.net
Take a tasty treat up a notch with an eco-friendly glass drinking straw from a Granite Falls-based glass studio. This local Etsy shop handcrafts glass straws and carrying cases that aim to reduce plastic straw pollution and add a touch of fun to your iced coffee or seltzer. Choose from a plain straw or add a one-of-a-kind custom accent (coffee mug, animal, music note) to personalize it. Carrying cases are created from organic cotton and come in a wide variety of colors. Straws are dishwasher and microwave safe, and each purchase includes a cleaning brush. We'll drink to that.
Comfortable activewear can also be earth-friendly. Who knew? Seattle-based online retailer Girlfriend Collective’s clothing offers a high-end fit using sustainable, recycled materials. Vibrant colors, chic designs and ultimate comfort make Girlfriend Collective’s pieces a go-to part of any wardrobe. Tees, tanks, rompers, leggings and bras are made with cutting edge products like recycled polyester, recycled post-consumer bottles, ECONYL yarn (made from recycled fishing nets and other waste) and more. All packaging is 100-percent recycled and recyclable. From the raw materials sourced to create the pieces to the facilities producing the clothing, Girlfriend Collective values sustainability, fair trade and ethical labor practices, making it easy for you to do the same.
Nothing says “I love you, Mom” like a classic, colorful bouquet of flowers. Select a distinctive floral arrangement from Seattle’s Terra Bella Flowers. This local florist specializes in custom floral designs, houseplants and botanicals and supports local and global growers who celebrate organic, sustainable growing methods and human equality. Terra Bella Flowers can create something beautiful to suit anyone’s preferences. Add on a little extra something (like a candle or chocolates) and include a gift with delivery. Located in the heart of the Greenwood/Phinney Ridge neighborhood, Terra Bella Flowers offers daily delivery throughout Greater Seattle and some Eastside neighborhoods to make it easy for busy families.
For the outdoor enthusiast, consider one of Metamorphic Gear’s rugged, yet stylish totes, crafted with recycled sailing materials as a Mother's Day gift. Founder Lindsay Lawrence is a sailor and outdoorsman who wanted to design stylish and reliable eco-friendly products. Using his sailing experience, he recognized the durability of sail material and upcycled it into tote bags. Metamorphic Gear’s best-selling totes contain more than 90 percent upcycled materials with a truck tarp base, sailcloth top and climbing rope handles. One percent of every sale goes to support clean oceans. Retailers around the Puget Sound carry Metamorphic Gear totes so you can pick one up for Mom’s next outdoor adventure.
Ecologically and ethically-conscious fashionistas love to fill their closet with Prairie Underground’s functional, contemporary designs. Since 2005, Prairie Underground has made sustainability a top priority, honoring social, environmental and economic resources and respecting human rights and the natural world. Hemp and organic cotton is incorporated in every collection of tops, pants, hoodies and outerwear. Limited production reduces waste and shifts the focus to uniqueness. All clothing is manufactured here in Seattle, supporting local garment production in an ethical manner. Shop online or make an appointment to shop at their local boutique. If you're not sure what mom wants, why not get a gift card?
Get your kids in on the super sweet Fat Tuesday fun. Start at local bakeries that sell paczki (pronounced “poonch-key”), the traditional must-eat Polish donut that symbolizes the start of Lent. But, you have to act fast: They’re typically available for an extremely limited time. This year Paczki Day is Tuesday, March 1, and we’ve got you covered with a guide to great bakeries from Downers Grove to Bridgeport so you can stock up and go wild.
Delightful Pastries
Delightful Pastries
Owner Dobra Bielinski and her team are frying up thousands of paczki using a beloved, generations-old family recipe with a few modern-day twists when it comes to the filling: Apricot Jelly, Plum Butter, Salted Caramel with scratch-made caramel using sea salt, Fresh Strawberry, German Chocolate with pecans and coconut custard topping and more. They're famous for the booze-filled options as well: vodka and vanilla bean custard, Jameson Whiskey with chocolate custard and moonshine and lemon. Walk-ins are welcome, but pre-ordering is recommended and must be completed by Feb. 21. The minimum order is a dozen.
It’s Fat Tuesday 24/7/365 at this no-frills but much-loved Polish/Lithuanian bakery. They specialize in paczki and serve them year-round. You’ll always find at least four types, but on Fat Tuesday they go into overdrive with over 20 different fillings from cheese to pineapple. There will likely be a long line of local families looking to load up on this traditional pre-Lenten treat.
Available in all 16 Chicagoland locations, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee are offering four pazcki offerings that will please chocolate and fruit lovers. Guests can choose from vanilla pastry cream, chocolate pastry cream, cannoli cream and cherry paczkis. Stop into your favorite Stan's, Feb. 26-Mar. 1, or order online.
Locations all around Chicagoland, find the one nearest you online.
Fat Tuesday is one of the busiest days of the year at Roeser’s Bakery, one of Chicago’s oldest family-owned bakeries. This year’s Paczki menu boasts over 24 varieties! Since they tend to sell out fast, we recommend ordering in advance. While you’re there, grab a loaf of Roeser’s famous bread, available in rye and buttercrust white.
West Town Bakery is offering raspberry, chocolate and vanilla paczkis in their West Town, Wrigleyville and Financial District locations. Avoid lines by pre-ordering through Feb. 24 at noon for pick-up on Mar. 1 or visit them in person.
Located in the heart of Avondale, the northwest side neighborhood nicknamed “Polish Village” for its large Eastern European population, Kurowski’s and Rich’s Bakery is an emporium of all things Polish and yummy. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into babcia’s kitchen thanks to the sweet smells of kielbasa and paczki that waft through the air. The paczki lean toward the more traditional here, with plum, poppyseed and sweet farmer’s cheese among the top three requests. Take home a kielbasa to make your Fat Tuesday even fatter: You’ll find more than 20 varieties, all freshly smoked on the shop’s second floor.
2976 N. Milwaukee Ave., Avondale
KD Market
This local polish grocery store offers a variety of baked breads, pastries and fresh meals, all made from scratch year-round. But this time of year it’s all about the paczki. They’re proud of maintaining the old baking tradition of frying the paczki with the filling inside, making them unforgettably delicious. Order by Feb. 27 for guaranteed pick-up on Mar. 1.
Locations in Schiller Park, Schaumburg, Wheeling & Mount Prospect; Online: mykdmarket.com
Firecakes Donuts, the delicious artisan donut shop now with four locations as well as Billy, the donut truck, are ready to delight you with Chicago’s tastiest paczki. This year’s lineup included four different varieties: Housemade Raspberry-Blood Orange Jelly with Powdered Sugar, Malted Chocolate Cream with Chocolate Sugar, Lemon Curd with Lemon Glaze, and Apple Bourbon with Sugar, but it’s the other Mardi Gras donut delight that steals the show here, the baby topped King Cake Donut!
Bennison’s has been baking up European-style pastries, cookies, and custom-decorated cakes on Chicago’s North Shore since 1938. If you haven’t stepped into the small, Old World-style bakery, perhaps you’ve peered through the big glass window that gives a peek into the cake decorating room. They started celebrating early this year, so go in anytime between now and Mar. 1 to get your paczki.
Family-owned for over 30 years, Oak Park Bakery offers a wide selection of homemade-from-scratch baked goods. Polish baked goods are a mainstay here, with over 12 types of kolacky offered daily, and Paczki Day is a big deal. The pre-Lenten Polish treats are fried fresh and filled with different flavors, with lemon and cherry being the most in-demand. This bakery is small and old-school. But while it could be lost in the modern, glossy age, its retro-Americana vibe and service is what makes it remain a favorite.
The yellow and black awnings of Ingram's Busy Bee Bakery have always been beacons of happiness for west suburban families looking to satisfy a sweet tooth. Unfortunately, they had to close their doors after the owner, Chuck Kalousek, lost his months-long battle with Covid-19 in Jun. 2021, leaving behind a loving wife and two kids. Chuck's dedication to his community is greatly appreciated and it didn't feel right removing them from this list just yet. If you'd like to support his family, please consider donating to the GoFundMe in Chuck's honor.
1. ZEGO Foods
Flavor: Cherry Just Fruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard, Lupin, Molluscs, Sulphites, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard, Lupin, Molluscs, Sulphites, Gluten Verified Brand Allergy Info
2. That’s it.
Flavor: Apple + Strawberry Fruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard, Sulphites, Celery, Corn, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Top 8 (excluding coconut), Sesame, Mustard, Sulphites, Celery, Corn, Gluten Verified Brand Allergy Info
3. That’s it.
Flavor: Blueberry Probiotics Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard, Sulphites, Celery, Corn, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Top 8 (excluding coconut), Sesame, Mustard, Sulphites, Celery, Corn, Gluten Verified Brand Allergy Info
5. ClifKid
Flavor: Mixed Berry ZFruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated Allergen Statement
8. Bear
Flavor: Apple Yoyo
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated Allergen Statement
11. Ekoa
Flavor: Pineapple Fruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated Allergen Statement
13. Good and Gather
Flavor: Strawberry Fruit Strip
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten D
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
14. 365 Organic
Flavor: Mango Organic Fruit Strip
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
16. KIND
Flavor: Mango Apple Chia Fruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: Made in a facility that processes tree nuts, peanuts, soy and sesame.
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated Allergen Statement
Spokin is a modern platform and app connecting people managing food allergies to resources including food, restaurants, hotels and more. Users have personalized experiences based on allergies & location. With 55,000+ reviews across 79 countries, Spokin helps the allergy community share and connect. The Spokin iOS app is free on iTunes.
It’s time to push the refresh button! As summer arrives Dunkin’ is looking to give guests a boost of brightness, energy and excitement with their new Dunkin’ Refreshers iced beverages. Refreshers iced beverages will be available at participating Dunkin’ restaurants nationwide beginning Jun. 17.
Made with iced green tea, flavored fruit concentrate, and B vitamins, Dunkin’ Refreshers are beautifully bold beverages that will keep guests feeling renewed and refreshed. Dunkin’ Refreshers are available in two vibrant varieties, Strawberry Dragonfruit flavored and Peach Passion Fruit flavored. Both beverages are under 200 calories and are made without artificial dyes and flavors.
To help everyone celebrate summer with a refreshing taste at a special price, the brand is offering medium Dunkin’ Refreshers for $2 all day at participating Dunkin’ restaurants nationwide through Jul. 28.
According to Jill Nelson, Vice President, Marketing Strategy at Dunkin’, “Dunkin’ has been there to keep our guests running during these difficult months. Now, with the start of summer, it’s the perfect time for something fresh and exciting to energize and enliven people again. With a combination of iced green tea, B vitamins, and bright bursts of flavor, Dunkin’ Refreshers stand apart as the perfect, new choice to help anyone get their glow back.”
Currently, the vast majority of Dunkin’ restaurants across the country remain open and have put enhanced preventative health and safety measures in place. In an ongoing effort to help keep its guests and restaurant employees safe, Dunkin’ is currently limiting service to drive-thru, carry-out, delivery, and curbside pick-up at select locations. Guests can order and pay contactless on the Dunkin’ App for a quick, grab-and-go experience.
With COVID-related restrictions in place, breaking free from cabin fever isn’t very easy these days. Here’s a solution: Pick up a copy of 111 Places in Chicago That You Must Not Miss with Kids, by Amy Bizzarri, from your favorite local bookstore that offers shipping or curbside delivery and get ready for adventure! Many of the historic and wacky places featured in the book can be easily and safely seen from the comfort of your car to accommodate social distancing, and your kids just might think you’re slowly turning into Mrs. Frizzle from The Magic School Bus.
Giant, Green Hairy Monster at the Door
Maria Chambers
A big, hairy, green monster resides in on Racine Avenue in the West Loop: whenever he senses the smell of an approaching little kid, he heads straight to his massive front door and glares from behind the windowpane, hoping to scare any potential toy robbers away with his gruff, green hairy stare.
Chances are you or your kids have played with a toy that grew out of the minds of some of the non-monsters that work in this playful building: Big Monster Toys designs, engineers and prototypes toys and games for big names in the toy biz—Mattel, Moose, Fisher Price and Hasbro to name a few.
Founded in 1988 by three former partners of the legendary, Chicago-based toy design firm Marvin Glass & Associates, Big Monster Toys stands as one of the few remaining toy manufacturers operating in the city. Their unique door is a brilliant reminder of the unexpected, unrequited joy of toys.
Find it at: 21 S. Racine Ave., West Loop
Hebru Brantley Murals
Maria Chambers
Hebru Brantley's gallery is the city of Chicago. His iconic, superpower-charged characters pop up on unsuspecting walls across the city, from north to south, east to west.
“Flyboy,” a little boy with vintage aviator goggles always on the brink of flying into an adventure, appears often in Brantley's Work. Inspired by the Tuskegee Airmen, Brantley told DNAinfo in 2013 that he created the character "out of a need to have heroes of color, whether black, Asian, or White, European.”
Flyboy Uptown seems as if he's flying right on past the Uptown Broadway Building. A group of five fly kids explore the world beneath the bridge at 1800-1802 Pratt Blvd. A Flygirl with neon pink pigtails and bright, blue googles gazes towards the future from a mural at 1395 North Wood.
Born and raised in Bronzeville, Brantley's used art to keep himself focused, avoiding gang life. Today he's recognized nationally for his public works and solo shows. Icons like Chance the Rapper, Lenny Kravitz and George Lucas are fans of his work; Jay-Z bought one of his paintings on the spot at Art Basel, for $20,000.
See how many of his pop-art, comic-book style, grand-scale murals you can spot around town.
2001 S. Carpenter St.
1800-1802 W. Pratt Blvd.
1407 N. Milwaukee Ave.
151 N. Ogden Ave. (shown in featured photo)
Tip: Check out this interactive Chicago mural map to find all the amazing murals by Brantley and other large-scale mural artists.
In 1891, a young couple—Elias Disney and his wife, Flora — moved from Florida to Chicago. Elias, a carpenter by trade, secured a job at the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. The couple purchased an empty lot at 2156 N. Tripp Ave., in Chicago's Hermosa neighborhood, for $700. Flora designed the home of her dreams and Elias built the rectangular, frame home where they would add two more children to their family of four, with his own two hands. Roy Disney was born in 1893, soon after the family moved in. On December 5, 1901, Walter "Walt" Disney was born in the second-floor bedroom.
Few people realize that this modest home was the birthplace of an American cultural icon, and for years it stood sadly in a state of disrepair. No historical markers indicate that this was the birthplace of the Disney dream. It wasn't until the current owners, Brent Young and Dina Benadon, stepped in to save the day that the home began to breathe with new life The duo plans to slowly restore the home back to its early 20th-century glory and eventually transform it into a multimedia-rich museum as well as a center for early childhood creativity.
Tip: Elias Disney not only built the St. Paul Congregational Church (known as Iglesia Evangelica Bautista Betania today), the small church that stands at 2255 N. Keeler Ave., one block east and one block north of Walt Disney’s birthplace, but also named his son after the church's pastor, Walter Parr. Walt Disney was also baptized there.
Celebrate your cool attitude with a rainbow of icy treats at Pretty Cool, a whimsical, colorful, playful and just plain cool ice cream shop that doesn't sell by the scoop. The bars and ice pops here are classified into five cool categories: Custard Bars are ice cream submerged in chocolate, with flavors ranging from the classic—vanilla, cookies and cream—to the exotic—peanut butter potato chip, coffee pretzel toffee. Truck pops transform the standard popsicle with inventive flavors such as litchi lemon tea and passion fruit hibiscus. Plant pops are vegan-friendly, creamy treats made with non-dairy milks. Magic Shell inspired Party Pops are cream cheese bars dipped into Pretty Cool’s proprietary shell blend and topped with sprinkles.
Pony pops are made with tiny appetites and little hands in mind: smaller in size, they're available in classic, kid-friendly flavors—vanilla custard, strawberry buttermilk, chocolate custard, grape pop and pink lemonade pop—and cost $2 each. Pretty Cool is now offering curbside popsicle pick up: just order from your phone and pull up to the curb to pick up your sweet, icy delights.
Find it at: 2353 N. California Ave., Logan Square, prettycoolicecream.com
Leaning Tower of Niles
You don't have to travel all the way to Italy to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Niles, which directly borders Chicago’s far northwest side, is home to a half-size replica of the famed Torre Pendente di Pisa.
In 1934, industrialist Robert Ilg built a leaning tower of his very own here in Niles. It was just one part of a vast recreational complex for the employees of Ilg Hot Air Electric Ventilating Company, built to store water for the once onsite swimming pools. The 94-foot tower honors scientist Galileo Galilei, who tested his theory of gravity by dropping objects from the original tower in Pisa, with a plaque at its base.
Remember to open your car windows—if you’re lucky you just might hear the tower’s bronze bells mark the time. The bells at the tip-top of the tower, three of which were cast in 17th and 18th Century Italy, were just recently restored and tolls once again.
Tip: Grab a pizza to go from Pequod's Pizza via curbside pickup at 8520 Fernald Ave, Morton Grove (847) 470-9161; pequodspizza.com) and enjoy a Pisa-inspired dinner at home post-adventure. Pequod's specializes in Chicago Deep Dish Pizza with a caramelized crust.
Find it at: 6300 West Touhy Avenue, Niles, IL 60714
It takes a truckload of ingenuity to transform a troubling eyesore into a work of art. Chicago artist Jim Bachor has gone above and beyond: he patches up Chicago's most dastardly potholes and makes mosaics out of them. His thirty-plus pothole art masterpieces are reminders of the power of creativity to transform even the worst lemons into lemonade, making light of the bumps in the road of life by masking them with beauty. Bachor has even recently installed some COVID-19-inspired pothole art around town.
Bachor's self-proclaimed pothole revitalization initiative dates back to 2013, when he patched up a pothole in front of his home in the Mayfair neighborhood. He has transformed potholes into mosaiced Push-ups, daffodils, bluebirds; he's patched them with Burberry plaid and helpful This Is Not a Pothole reminders.
An interactive map at bachor.com details the exact locations, but it's best to be caught unaware by these ever-evolving installations.
Find it at: See bachor.com for an interactive map of Bachor's playful pothole installations.
Ancient Egyptian Temple (Reebie Storage and Moving Co.)
When you can’t jet off and away to Cairo, here’s a local, Egypt-inspired alternative that promises to amaze and inspire: When the Reebie Storage and Moving Co., owned by brothers John and William Reebie, was planning to construct a new building, they decided to make an unforgettable mark on Clark. John Reebie had visited Egypt at some time before 1921 and the brothers, inspired by Egyptian Revival architecture, decided to construct an ancient Egyptian temple of their very own, smack dab in the middle of the north side neighborhood of Lincoln Park. The building's design was based on two ancient Egyptian temples, Dendera and Edfu, erected about 200 BC by Pharaoh Ramses II.
Note the two statues of Ramses, representative of the two founding Reebie Brothers, that flank the entrance. See how many winged scarabs you can find on the facade. Scarabs, a.k.a. dung beetles were considered sacred in ancient Egypt, and stood as symbols of rebirth.
