ML Interest Tag: quince

Ripe This Way: 8 U-Pick Apple Orchards near Portland

by Katrina Emery

Apple picking season means fall is on its way in

This year’s scorching summer has ripened fruit quickly, and that means fall is set to bring bushels of bounty. The orchards around Portland are flowing with all varieties of apples, pears, peaches, and more, and we know you’re ready to pick with the kids. We’ve rounded up the best farms around, and they’re all gorgeous enough to sneak in those beloved fall family photos. How can you resist?

Not up for a drive? Here’s where to go apple picking near Portland

Bell’s Orchard

This sweet Beaverton farm boasts a bright red barn that welcomes families daily—they even have evening picking for these gorgeous warm summer nights. Gravenstein apples are now available for U-pick at $2.50 per pound, as well as Bartlett pears for $1.50 a pound. The short-style orchard means that everyone can pick without ladders. Fill your buckets with varieties of apples, pears, and juicy peaches—your only problem might be stopping before you have enough for 50 pies.

24350 S.W. Farmington Rd.
Beaverton, OR
Online: bellsorchard.com

Related: U-Pick Pumpkin Patches You’ll Definitely Want to Visit

Sherwood Orchards

In the rolling hills past Newberg, the 1,300 trees of this orchard produce pears, apples, plums, quince, and even persimmons. U-pick is available over the 26 acres with more than 70 varieties of apples ranging from tart cooking apples to sweet ones—check the website or Facebook for updates on availability. Please bring your own boxes and bags to both pick and bring your fruit home in, and make sure you wear sturdy shoes (not sandals or flip flops) because the grounds are uneven. Get your camera ready, because this spot offers the perfect opportunity for those back-to-school or holiday themed photos.

23995 S.W. Pacific Hwy.
Sherwood, OR
Online: sherwoodorchards.com

Related: Get Lost! Corn Mazes to Visit This Fall

 

These family-friendly apple orchards along the Hood River Valley Fruit Loop (& beyond) are worth the drive

Kiyokawa Orchards

 

Family-owned and operated in Parkdale, this orchard produces apples your family won’t be able to resist, and did we mention it’s the largest in the Hood River Valley? No wonder it’s been a standing favorite for Portland families looking to get their fresh fruit fix for years. As it happens with Mother Nature, the usual apple picking schedule is a bit off this year. Currently, they’re running about two to three weeks behind, but have plans to open in early September. Rest assured that when the apples are ripe, families will be filling their baskets with any number of the nearly 150 different varieties of fruits they offer during the harvest season. That’s right, you can also score some sweet pears when you pick here. Be sure to keep an eye on their website or social media accounts to find out when the time is ripe to head over.

5625 Hutson Rd.
Parkdale, OR
Online: mthoodfruit.com

Mountain View Orchards

Three generations in and this 50-acre orchard near Portland is still producing stellar fruit that goes above and beyond apples. August and September see peaches, plums, pears, apples, nectarines, late blueberries, and even dahlias, corn, carrots, and beets. Make it whole day with a hayride later in the season, topped off with fresh cider and donuts. And the adults in the group should check out their special hard cider on tap or in bottles to take home. They are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and pups are happily allowed on a leash.

6670 Trout Creek Ridge Rd.
Mt. Hood, OR
Online: mtvieworchards.com

Related: We Picked the Best Fall Farms Around

Beilke Family Farm

Near Salem, Beilke Family Farm boasts up to 15 varieties of irresistible apples like Ruby Mac, Cripps Pink, and Gold Rush available for picking between late August and mid-November. Four generations have worked these trees, and the care shines through in well-organized rows that are easy to navigate so you can find your favorite fruit. The dwarf trees make it a cinch for kids to pick and fill their buckets. Please bring your own buckets or boxes to take home your picked apples; the farm’s five gallon plastic buckets are only for use in the orchard. Opening times are Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

4925 Rockdale St. N.E.
Brooks, OR
Online: beilkefamilyfarm.com

Hood River U-Pick Organic

Bask in the shadow of Mt. Hood at this scenic farm that offers organic U-pick apples around the middle of September. Relaxing is the farm vibe here, and kids will love interacting with the many animals that roam the farm. We’re talking chickens, pigs, and even alpacas. Enjoy a picnic under the shade of the farm trees, or let the kids roam when they’ve had their fill of pickin’.

4320 Royal Anne Dr.
Hood River, OR
Online: hoodriverupick.com

Draper Girls’ Country Farm

Even on a rainy or overcast day, you can head to this Hood River Valley farm to go apple picking in the fall. After you check in and grab a bucket for picking, it’s as easy as finding ripe fruit within reach. You’ll find apples and maybe some peaches, depending on how late in the apple-picking season you head over. Charming goats may be there to greet your kids, and they’ll love swinging on the tree swing when they’re done. Apples are priced based on weight, and they keep for a long time, so have a few recipe ideas on hand for the coming weeks.

6200 OR-35
Mt. Hood, OR
Online: drapergirlsfarm.com

Smith Berry Barn

Head to Hillsboro, just a short drive from Portland, where this charming farm offers the most delicious fresh produce. Stroll through the picturesque orchard and pick from rows upon rows of apple trees bursting with fantastic fruit. Your kids will have a blast exploring the farm and enjoying the fresh country air.

24500 SW Scholls Ferry Road
Hillsboro, OR
Online: smithberrybarn.com

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Nature Is Calling: 9 Incredible Hikes to Take in the City

by Jennifer O'Brien

Whether you’re downtown or uptown, coastal, or inland, you don’t have to drive far to find a good hiking spot

Ahhhh…spending the day in nature…fresh air, green trees, a picturesque hike that will tire your kids so they conk out during the car ride home. SoCal is brimming with kid-friendly trails right in our very own neighborhoods so you don’t have to look far for some swell places to explore. These hikes are just a stone’s throw away from home, offer free parking, and feature paths that are easy to navigate. So no matter what part of the city you find yourself in, there’s a perfect place close by to hike the day away.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park - Point Loma

Ben Steward for Unsplash

The Sunset Park Cliffs Trail stretched along the Point Loma Peninsula is one of the very best for small kiddos. This stunning coastal hiking trail is about one-mile out and back, making it easy peasy on tiny legs.  Along your travels, you'll have access to the beach and tide pools which you can easily check out at low tide – so be sure to pack swimsuits for some serious exploring. As always, these are called "cliffs" for a reason, so pay extra attention that littles don't venture too close to the edge. We highly recommend catching the view at sunset if you don't mind a crowd—it tends to be the most popular time of day for a reason. It's also a swell place to spot grey whales on their way to migration, depending on the time of year.

Bathrooms: No
Parking: Small lots and street parking with Ladera St. and Luscomb St. as good bets

Sunset Park Cliffs Trail
700 Cliffs Blvd.
San Diego
Online: sandiego.gov

Tecolote Canyon - Bay Park

This is a long canyon in Bay Park where you’ll find several good entrances to choose from. A great starting place for kids is the Tecolote Canyon Natural Park & Nature Center where you’ll find scheduled ranger talks, stories, crafts, and a host of exhibits on animal and plant life. Or you can kick things off at the recreation center where you’ll discover a fun playground with tons of shade. Pick a trail and start your day of majestic exploration.  Just remember, they are out-and-back trails, so you’ll have to go back the way you came. 

Good to Know: Remember that open spaces are home to rattlesnakes, poison oak, mountain lions, and other hazards. Stay aware of your surroundings, bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and wear good shoes.
Bathrooms: Yes, at the Nature Center and Recreation Center
Parking: Free parking lot

Tecolote Canyon Nature Center
5180 Tecolote Rd.
San Diego

Tecolote Canyon Recreation Center
5188 Tecolote Rd.
San Diego

Online: sandiego.gov

Maple Canyon - Bankers Hill

A perfect combo of urban and nature can be found with this short and simple hike in the middle of the city. Start things off at the historic wooden Quince Street Bridge and you’ll find a trail entrance on the other side that will take you down into the canyon and under the bridge. This is an out-and-back, flat ground trail so only go half as far as little legs can muster so they can make it back to the bridge. This hike is perfect any time of year, but in spring, this trail really puts on a show with lush greenery and oodles of wildflowers.  Bonus: Next to the bridge, you’ll find a Little Free Library so bring some old books to donate. Once you and the fam have worked up an appetite, stop by James Coffee and Extraordinary Desserts only one block away.

Bathrooms: No
Parking: Free and metered parking

Maple Canyon at Quince Street Bridge
Fourth Ave. & Quince St.
San Diego
Online: sandiego.gov

Palm Canyon - Balboa Park

Located behind Mingei Museum is one of the most accessible and quick urban hikes at Palm Canyon in Balboa Park. Winding paths reward hikers with a shady and lush canyon filled with palm trees. In fact, the OG Mexican fan palms date back to 1912 so you can throw in a little history during your visit as well. There are some dirt trails that split upwards, but they eventually loop back around to each other. The garden also features a beautiful wooden footbridge leading from the Alcazar Gardens parking lot to across the street from Spreckles Organ Pavilion. This is a short hike, making it easy on little legs and even easier on parents' ears since complaints will likely be kept to a minimum. Bathrooms are conveniently located at the top of the steps.

Bathrooms: Yes
Parking: Behind Spreckels Organ Pavilion

Palm Canyon
635 Pan American Rd. W.
San Diego
Online: balboapark.org

Shepherd Canyon - Tierrasanta

This true urban hike is in a canyon that meanders between suburban housing developments. You’ll likely spot regulars from the neighborhood who come here for their daily walks, but it’s so wide that it never feels jam-packed. Some trails are lined with river rocks, sticks, or fallen trees, giving the area a great sense of community pride for being well-taken care of. You may even spy the occasional fort made of sticks and branches that kids will love to play in.  There's not much elevation gain to the trail overall, so it will be a super easy hike for beginners and little ones. With several entry points into this out-and-back trail system, families will have plenty of swell options.

Bathrooms: No
Parking: Free, residential street parking

Shepherd Canyon
6126 Antigua Blvd.
San Diego
Online: alltrails.com

Florida Canyon - Balboa Park

On the other side of Balboa Park off Park Blvd., you’ll find another primo hiking trail at Florida Canyon. This is a more moderate hike for longer legs that will take the stamina of a 6-year-old to trek out and back. The dirt trails split off every which way so just pick a direction and follow it until you want to go back. It’s easy to find your way because the brush is low enough to see where you’ve come from.

The best way to access the trail is to park in front of the Natural History Museum at Balboa Park and walk across the bridge toward the rose garden. Turn left and you’ll find yourself in the Desert Garden with paved trails, making it an easy nature walk for kiddos. To find the hiking trail, take the switchback paved trail down towards Zoo Pl. and cross the street.

Bathrooms: None nearby, but there are restrooms in Balboa Park
Parking: Next to the Natural History Museum

Florida Canyon
2125 Park Blvd.
San Diego
Online: balboapark.org

Manzanita Canyon - City Heights

This scenic urban hike will have you feeling like you’re not in San Diego anymore. With its dried up river bed, large river rocks, and brush lining the wide trails, you're transported to somewhere totally new.  During your visit, be on the lookout for wild animals and some serious bird spotting. There are several different neighborhood entrances to this out-and-back hike, but a good starting point is the Gathering Place (noted below). When you've finished hiking, check out the secret Azalea Park Water Conservation Garden, as well as a groovy playground behind the Community Center building.

Bathrooms: No, but you’ll find one at Azalea Community Park nearby
Parking: Free, residential street parking

Manzanita Canyon Gathering Place
Manzanita Dr. & Manzanita Pl.
San Diego
Online: sdcanyonlands.org

Seven Bridge Walk – Balboa Park

Definitely, the most "urban" of all the hikes we've listed, the Seven Bridge Walk is a 5.5. mile loop that packs in some of San Diego's best sights and scenery, and it's definitely one your kiddos will never forget. This flat and easy path invites families to explore all seven bridges in Balboa Park and the surrounding neighborhoods of Hillcrest, North Park, and Banker's Hill. The highlight is the suspension bridge at Spruce St. built in 1912 - you'll definitely want a photo here. We recommend starting at the Park Blvd. Bridge on the east side of Park Blvd. at Village Pl. near the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden. While you conquer each bridge in your quest, there are plenty of charming eateries and coffee shops to refuel along the way.

Bathrooms: Public restrooms are located throughout Balboa Park
Parking: Numerous lots throughout Balboa Park, as well as a large (and free) public lot nearby at the San Diego Zoo

Seven Bridge Walk
E. side of Park Blvd. & Village Pl. (if starting at Park Blvd. Bridge)
San Diego
Online: alltrails.com

 

Annie's Canyon Trail – Solana Beach

Bailey L. for Unsplash

Located in Solana Beach, this fun 1-hour hike in the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve will treat kids to an epic exploration of the slot canyon, mushroom cave, and stunning sandstone formations. Annie's Canyon Trail begins in a residential area and is super popular, so you may want to visit during the week to avoid the crowds or at the very least go early on the weekends. At the end of the slot canyon is a 15 ft. high steel ladder that allows visitors to exit. If you visit on the weekend, please note it can get crowded making it near impossible to venture back the very narrow way you came in, so make sure all members of your family are able to climb the ladder out or can be carried up.

Good to Know: Given the narrowness of the trail and the ladder at the end, make sure to wear sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes
Bathrooms: No
Parking: Street parking in the neighborhood

Annie's Canyon Trail
150 Solana Point Cir.
Solana Beach
Online: alltrails.com

Hiking Safety & Tips:
1. Always bring more water than you think you need.
2. Wear sturdy shoes and hats and pack plenty of sunscreen.
3. Watch out for snakes and poison ivy along the trails.
4. With the exception of the Seven Bridge Walk, none of these urban hikes are stroller-friendly, but all are perfect for little legs to explore on their own.

Good to know: With so many fabulous urban hiking trails around the city, it’s hard to pick just one. So here’s an easy way to find a trail near you. Open up your phone’s map, zoom in to the green areas and look for the dashed green lines—those indicate trails. You can also type “hikes” or “trails” into your phone’s map and you’ll be surprised to see what pops up around you!

Additional reporting by Bonnie Taylor

 

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8 Best Undiscovered Hikes for Kids in San Diego

by Bonnie Taylor

Local hiking spots are a big hit for most people wanting to get outside for fresh air and exercise, but you don’t have to go where everyone else goes. Try one of these “off the beaten path” hikes and you’ll either have long stretches of them to yourself or even the entire trail. Plus, some of these have cool attractions for kids like playgrounds, lakes, and bridges to run over; one of them is even a dormant volcano! They’re all short and sweet, which is perfect for little legs, and most are flat and easy for little bikes or strollers to roll along. Pick out one or all of these and put them on your calendar for a fun family hike.

Lake Calavera

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

If you’re looking for a little adventure, take a hike on a volcano. Don’t worry, though. It’s considered extinct because it last erupted over 20 million years ago. There are lots of easy and well-maintained trails crisscrossing all over this volcano. The loop trail up and around the lake and over the dam is almost 2 miles, but getting up to the top might be a bit too much for little legs to do on their own. Consider an out and back trip which starts on the easy flat foothills.

Tip: The main entrance is on Tamarack, where the bathrooms are and quick access to take the trail over the dam.

Secret Tip: If you get to the top, you’ll see a chain-link fence and just beyond that is a really cool rock labyrinth and other rock art that others have left behind.

Hours: Sunrise-Sunset
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 0.5-2 miles
Type: Loop or Out and back
Parking: Street
Type: Inland
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Not recommended

Lake Calavera
Tamarack Ave. near Strata Dr., Carlsbad
760-936-3098
Online: carlsbadca.gov

Batiquitos Lagoon

Aimee Della Bitta

This one is more of a flat walk than a hike, but this is the perfect introduction to get kids outside and walking in nature. Kids will love seeing all kinds of birds here at these preserved wetlands, including the big blue herons as they glide over the water. Bring your binoculars along to see what you’ll discover flying, floating or wading in the lagoon.

Hours/Lagoon: 9am-3pm
Hours/Nature Center: 9am-12pm
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 3.2 miles
Type: Out and back
Parking: Small lot
Type: Coastal
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Strollers: Yes, Bikes: Not allowed

Batiquitos Lagoon
7380 Gabbiano Ln. Carlsbad
760-931-0800
Online: batiquitosfoundation.org

Chollas Lake Trail

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

This neighborhood lake tucked into the unassuming neighborhood of Rolando is amazing. You can walk around the lake in about 30 minutes on the easy loop trail, but plan to be here for much longer because there’s a lot to do and see along the way. Bring duck food because there are more variety of ducks here than at any other lake I’ve been to. On the far side of the lake, you’ll find a long out and back walking trail with a huge grassy hill that will tempt kids to climb up and roll down. Near the small parking lot is a fun wood-plank kids' play-house and a Boy Scouts nature trail.

Hours: 6:30am-5:30pm
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 2.3 miles
Type: Loop
Parking: Small lot
Type: Coastal, urban
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Not recommended

Chollas Lake Trail
6350 College Grove Dr., Rolando
619-527-7683
Online: sandiego.gov

Louis Stelzer County Park

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

Sometimes you have to just head out of town to find some peace and quiet and that’s what you’ll find at Louis Stelzer County Park. This used to be Mr. Stelzer’s weekend retreat; which he left to the county to keep as a place for families and kids to have a nature retreat of their own. The 1.5 mile shaded loop trail starts at the stocked koi fish pond, loops up around and ends at the playground.

Hours: 9:30am-6:30pm
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: $3/parking
Miles: 1.5 miles
Type: Loop
Parking: Small lot
Type: Inland
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Not recommended

Louis Stelzer County Park
11470 Wildcat Canyon Rd., Lakeside
619-561-0580
Online: sdparks.org

Tijuana River Estuary

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

At the southernmost tip of San Diego is one of the most serene places that few people know about. Where the Tijuana River meets the sea you’ll find 2,000 acres of wetlands to explore. Several trails from 0.3 miles to 1.5 miles long criss-cross out and back all over these wetlands, so pick one and see where it takes you. Along the way you’ll see all kinds of shorebirds and endangered species taking solace here.

Tip: The visitor center and native plant gardens have interactive exhibits, guided bird and nature walks and a junior ranger program.

Hours/Trails: Dawn-Dusk
Hours/Visitor Center: 10 am-5 pm Wednesday-Sunday
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 0.3-1.5 miles
Type: Out and back
Parking: Street
Type: Coastal
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Yes

Tijuana River Estuary
301 Caspian Way, Imperial Beach
619-575-3613
Online: trnerr.org

Maple Canyon Trail

Bonnie Taylor @famdiego

A perfect combination of urban + nature combines into this short and easy little hike in the middle of the city. Start on Fourth Ave. where you’ll cross over the historic wooden Quince Street bridge to find a trail entrance on the other side. This will take you down into the canyon and under the bridge for an out and back flat trail. Only walk half as far as little legs will go, so they can make it back to the bridge on their own.

Bonus: at the start of the bridge you’ll find a Little Free Library so bring some old books to donate

Tip: 1 block down is James Coffee and Extraordinary Desserts, plan accordingly

Hours: Sunrise-Sunset
Bathrooms: No
Cost: Free
Miles: 1 mile
Type: Out and back
Parking: Street
Type: Urban
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Not recommended

Maple Canyon Trail at Quince Street Bridge
Fourth Ave. + Quince St.., Bankers Hill

Kate Sessions Park Trails

Farnaz N. via Yelp

After you take in the distant ocean views from this scenic park (with a playground + bathrooms, by the way), look behind the park to find some trails leading into a wide-open space. These trails have little elevation gain, but there are fun dips that kids will love to run up again and again. It’s a short out and back 0.7-mile trail, so you won’t go very far, but just enough to feel like you’re hiking.

Tip: Bring a picnic lunch and a blanket to spread out because you’ll want to spend the entire day here. This is a popular dog spot, so it’s a great place to bring your pooch.

Hours: 7 am -Sunset
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 0.7 miles
Type: Out and back
Parking: Lot
Type: Coastal, urban
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Bikes: Not recommended

Kate Session Park Trails
5115 Soledad Rd., Pacific Beach
619-525-8213

Vista Conservancy Trail

City of Vista

You’ll score with playgrounds and bathrooms on each side of this long flat trail so it doesn’t matter which end you start at. It’s a mostly shaded trail that winds along a creek and in between some urban neighborhoods. Look for the Native American grinding stones along the way and know that you’ll have to cross some streets to follow this long winding trail.

Start at Wildwood Park and you can explore the nearby Rancho Buena Vista Adobe house.

Start at Brengle Terrace Park (near the tennis courts) and you’ll find a large recreation center and the Alta Vista Botanical Gardens are at the very top.

Hours: Sunrise-Sunset
Bathrooms: Yes
Cost: Free
Miles: 1.5 miles
Type: Out and back
Parking: Lots
Type: Urban
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Wheels: Yes

Vista Conservancy Trail
777 W Vista Way, Vista
760-643-5018
Online: thevistaconservancy.com

Wildwood Park
651 E Vista Way, Vista
760-639-6151
Online: http://www.vistarecreation.com

Brengle Terrace Park
1200 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista
760-639-6151
Online: http://www.vistarecreation.com/

—Bonnie Taylor

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9 Things to Do with Kids in Memphis

by Kate Loweth

Memphis parents know the meaning of quality family time: you’ll find them on weeknights strolling Beale Street with the kids, chaperoning school field trips to the National Civil Rights Museum and posing for holiday pics on the Graceland lawn. We’ve gathered up our list of local favorites for Memphis family activities below and loaded up our Memphis events calendar with seasonal events to keep you busy. Hit the town!

photo: Christopher H. via yelp

National Civil Rights Museum
At the place of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s death in 1968 in Memphis, TN, the National Civil Rights Museum is a renowned educational and cultural institution. Check out their family guide for tips on discussing sensitive topics with kids.

450 Mulberry St.
Memphis, TN
Online: civilrightsmuseum.org

Memphis Zoo
The Memphis Zoo spans 70 acres and is home to more than 4,500 animals, representing over 500 different species. The Zoo’s animal inhabitants reside in one-of-a-kind exhibits like Once Upon A Farm, Commercial Appeal Cat Country, Primate Canyon, Animals of the Night, Northwest Passage and CHINA.

2000 Prentiss Pl.
Memphis, TN
Online: memphiszoo.org

Fire Museum of Memphis
Step back in time to a turn-of-the-century firehouse. Fight the flames of a burning skyscraper from a snorkel basket simulator. Take a look at the horse-drawn era of firefighting from the horse’s perspective! Test your ability to find an escape route to survive a fire. Feel the heat of the FEDEX Fire Room. Learn about the most devastating fires in the history of Memphis. Discover the proud history of Memphis’ first African-American firefighters.

118 Adams Ave.
Memphis, TN
Online: firemuseum.com

photo: Heather C. via yelp

Shelby Farms Park
Shelby Farms, located in Memphis, Shelby County, Tennessee, is one of the twenty largest urban parks in the United States. At a size of 4,500 acres, it covers more than five times the area of Central Park in New York City with 843 acres.

500 N Pine Lake Dr.
Memphis, TN
Online: shelbyfarmspark.org

Levitt Shell Overton Park
Every year, the Levitt Shell presents more than 50 free concerts. Its mission is building community through free music and education, finding common ground in a diverse audience.

Memphis, TN
Online: levittshell.org

Memphis Botanic Garden
These peaceful gardens offer beautiful scenery all year round. Visit for Twilight Thursdays or Food Truck Garden Parties for even more fun.

750 Cherry Rd.
Memphis, TN
Online: memphisbotanicgarden.com

photo: Andrea K. via yelp

The Children’s Museum of Memphis
The Children’s Museum of Memphis creates memorable learning experiences through the joy of play in hands-on exhibits and programs. There’s a bank, campground and loads of other pretend-play areas, plus a spot for the littlest visitors.

2525 Central Ave.
Memphis, TN
Online: cmom.com

Memphis Farmers Market Central Station
This busy weekly market offers produce, food trucks, local crafts and live tunes, open seasonally.

S. Front Street at GE Patterson
Memphis, TN
Online: memfarmersmkt.wpengine.com

Lichterman Nature Center
Located in the heart of metropolitan Memphis, Lichterman features exciting exhibits, native wildflowers and trees, and a tradition of excellence in environmental education set in the midst of 65 acres of lake, meadow, and forest.

5992 Quince Rd.
Memphis, TN
Online: memphismuseums.org

The Best Upcoming Events for Kids in Memphis
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Memphis events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms.

—Kate Loweth

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Go Explore! Discover San Diego’s Hidden Treasures

by Marissa Mullen

Many of San Diego’s beloved treasures are right in front of us -– the beach, the zoo, and dozens of parks and gardens. But to see some of the unknown treasures around town, you have to do a little digging. Luckily, we’ve done the work for you. If you’re looking for a unique adventure, check out our guide to a few little known spots that you and the kids can explore together.

Photo Credit: Shawna C via Yelp

Message In A Sand Dune
You may be a frequent visitor to Coronado Beach, but this one holds a secret. Next time you go for a walk along the beach, take notice of the large sand dunes scattered throughout the area. These are not natural dunes; rather they are man-made by somebody with a bit of creativity.  At first glance, the maze-like dunes appear to be just large humps of sand but look a little closer: the dunes form the word “Coronado.” See if your kiddos can spell out the whole word!

Insider’s Tip: It’s more easily seen from high above, so if you ever have an opportunity to take a blimp, a helicopter, or an airplane ride over the beach, you will be able to clearly read the secret sand message.

838 Ocean Blvd.
Coronado, CA 92118

Photo Credit: Ron Q. via Yelp

Little Free Libraries
Spending the day at the library curled up with a bunch of books is a great way to spend the day. But there’s another way to experience the library, and that’s with a Little Free Library. These look a lot like mailboxes only instead of letters, they hold books! You may have even walked past a few, while out and about. The concept is simple: Take a book (or two), return a book. In turn, the love of reading is brought to all. Little Free Libraries come in all shapes and sizes and can be found in many communities and neighborhoods. A great one to start with is at the entrance of the Quince Street Bridge in Mission Hills. Let the kiddos pick out a new book and stretch their legs as they walk across this 100-year-old landmark.

Insider’s Tip: Go on a hunt and see how many Little Free Libraries you can find. If you want, you can build and design your own Little Free Library for your own neighborhood!

400 Quince St.
(Locations throughout San Diego County)
Online: littlefreelibrary.org 

McRae Albright Ranch House
Kids seem to be in awe of really big things, and the Moreton Bay Fig tree at the McRae Albright Ranch House is big enough to stop you in your tracks. This historic, premier Victorian ranch house in the Spring Valley area is home to the oldest and third largest tree in California. This majestic fig tree has roots that are probably bigger than some small kiddos!

Insider’sTip: This is a private residence, so don’t disturb the owner. But feel free to take pictures and marvel at this breathtaking beauty!

3754 Barbic Ct.
Spring Valley, CA 91977

What hidden gems have you discovered lately? Let us know in the comments!

— Marissa Mullen

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The Bridges of San Diego County

by Marissa Mullen

Admit it — you’re getting a bit tired of the regular walks around the neighborhood. Try going on a new adventure and taking the kids for a walk across a few of San Diego’s unique foot bridges. San Diego may be home to the iconic Coronado bridge, but that’s not the only bridge in town worth noting. While you may be preoccupied with getting to the other side, don’t forget to stop and enjoy the view. It’s worth the time – we promise!

Quince Street Bridge
The Quince Street Bridge is over 100 years old, making it a classic Mission Hills landmark and one of the few remaining wooden trestle bridges in San Diego County. Take your time walking across this one. The bridge overlooks Maple Canyon, which has a neat, walkable hiking trail 60 feet below. It makes for a pretty awesome view.

The entrance on 4th avenue has a Little Free Library, so you can even get a little reading in while you’re at it.

400 Quince St.
San Diego, Ca

Spruce Street Bridge
Just a short walk away from the Quince Street Bridge, you’ll find the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, better known as the “Wobbly Bridge.” This one is hidden quite well in a residential area, and is truly a treasure to behold. It actually sways back and forth as you walk across it. While some kids love the bouncy feature, others may be a little scared so be sure to hold on to your little ones! Don’t miss the gorgeous view of San Diego’s downtown skyline from the center of the bridge as the Spruce Street bridge spans Kate Sessions Canyon. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, hike down the canyon (careful, it’s steep) and discover even more fun things to explore.

Spruce St. and First Ave.
San Diego, Ca

Vermont Street Pedestrian Bridge
The Vermont Street Pedestrian Bridge is a modern steel bridge that connects the neighborhoods of University Heights and Hillcrest. It’s pretty short, so kids love to run across it but it’s worth stopping every few seconds to check out the quotes written on panels all along the bridge. Before they run off, test your kid’s reading abilities and have them read quotes written by people like Martin Luther King, Jr., Kate Sessions, Pythagoras, and even Dr. Seuss. The bridge conveniently ends in a shopping area, so if your kids are hungry after all that running you can easily grab a bite to eat at Panera Bread right next door.

1200 Pascoe St. (Vermont St & Pascoe St)
San Diego, Ca

25th Street Musical Bridge or Crab Carillon
The Crab Carillon is an unassuming freeway over pass, which also serves as a musical piece of art created by Roman de Salvo. The secret is in the railing separating the sidewalk from the traffic on the west side of the bridge. Give your kids a large stick (trust us) or a metal rod, then let them slide it along the bars of the rail as they walk, skip or run up and down the bridge. Your little musician will soon discover he’s actually playing a song called “Crab Carillon” composed by Joseph Waters. You might think of it as a really big xylophone. The song is a palindrome, so it sounds the same no matter which direction they walk. It’s a simple, yet charming way to pass the time.

700 25th St.
San Diego, Ca

 Have you visited any of these bridges? Let us know in the comments!

-Marissa Mullen

Photos by Marissa Mullen

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