EVERYTHING
FOR YOUR FAMILY
KID
QUIPS
“One night, my 3-year-old asked me if she could sleep in my bed. I told her no. She said, “That’s not fair! Why does Daddy get to sleep in your bed?” READ MORE
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The Inland Empire’s and Orange County’s most definitive summer fun, must-do, must-see list is now in your hands. Why wait? Start reading, and start planning, and start having fun. About the Water, Into the Sea (#1-17) 1. Ocean Institute Have fun and get educated by the exciting programs, including learning centers and animal tanks that are open all day on the weekends - the New Moon Jelly exhibit, shark and ray feeding and presentation, as well as octopus feeding. Hours: 10 a.m.3 p.m. weekends. Behind the scenes tour Thursdays-Fridays, 3:30 p.m. Cost: Members free/general admission (13+) $5.50/youth (4-12) $3.50/children 3 and under free. Tour is $2 per person; members free. Address and phone number: 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point. 949.496.2274. Website: www.ocean-institute.org 2. The Aquarium of the Pacific (Long Beach) Take a journey through the world’s largest ocean at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Meet more than 12,500 animals as you explore Southern California and Baja, the frigid waters of the North Pacific and the colorful reefs of the Tropical Pacific. Get face-to-face with, and even touch, the ocean’s ultimate predators in Shark Lagoon. Set out on a voyage this summer on Ocean Experience, joining the experts aboard the research vessel Conqueror as you embark on a 90-minute hands-on marine science excursion through the Long Beach Harbor. Special events include: Fourth of July BBQ, 5-10 p.m.; Teen Night, 6-11 p.m., July 15. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Adults $18.95/children (3-11) $10.95/seniors (60+) $16.95. Other packages available. Address and phone number: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. 562.590.3100. Website: www.aquariumofpacific.org 3. Lake Perris Recreation Area Boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, camping and picnicking are all available at this natural oasis next to Moreno Valley. The man-made lake has two beaches, boat-launch ramps, and more Hours, etc.: 17801 Lake Perris Dr., Perris. 951.657.0676. Website: www.parks.ca.gov 4. Lake Skinner County Park If you are looking for one of the best fishing holes in the Inland Empire, this is the place to go. Angling is the main attraction here, either from a boat or from the shore. Rental boats are available and all manner of fishing supplies. Hours: 6 a.m. to dusk daily. Cost: Day-use permits are $4. Fishing boat rentals: $55. Address, etc.: 37701 Warren Road, Winchester. 951.926.1505. www.riversidecountyparks.org/lake_skinner 5. Diamond Valley Lake Besides its role as an emergency water source for all of Southern California, this huge reservoir south of Hemet has become one of the region’s prime fishing locations, home to many fishing tournaments and the scene of record catches by some of its lucky visitors. Hours: Sunrise to sunset. Cost: $7 entrance fee/$6 boat launch fee/$3 fishing permit. Address, etc.: 300 Newport Road, Hemet. 951.926.7201 or 800.590.LAKE. www.dvlake.com 6. Newport Beach Pier Take a walk down the historic boardwalk located at the Newport Beach Pier. Here you’ll find a collection of unique shops for everything you need at the beach. Many restaurants are located by the pier, and walking along the boardwalk is always free and enjoyable, too. Hours: 6 a.m.-10 p.m. year-round. Parking: $1/hour metered spaces next to the pier and in the surrounding streets; limited free street parking across Balboa Boulevard. Address and phone number: Off Balboa Boulevard at McFadden Place and Ocean Front Street, Newport Beach. Newport Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau - 949.719.6100 or 1.800.94.COAST. Website: www.newportbeach-cvb.com 7. Raging Waters With more than 50 beautifully landscaped acres and 36 slides and attractions, plus a sand beach, there is fun for guests of all ages. Experience the newest attraction, Dragon’s Den, twist down the 10-story High Extreme, float down the 1/4-mile Amazon River or relax in the huge Wave Pool. Younger guests will never tire of Kids’ Kingdom and Splash Island. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; July 31, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Aug. 29-31, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Cost: Varies, from $16.99-$27.99. After 4 p.m., reduced admission. Season passes available. Address, etc.: 111 Raging Waters Dr., San Dimas. 909.802.2200. Website: www.ragingwaters.com 8. Balboa Island, Fun Zone and Pier Besides having the excuse to take the ferry between Balboa Island and the Fun Zone, there is much to see and do. While on Balboa Island you can dine at tasty restaurants and shop, then go across Newport Bay to the Fun Zone to ride on the Ferris Wheel, carousel, to play games and get ice cream. The pier is only a little walk away from the Fun Zone with extensive beach area and playground equipment for the very young. Hours: Fun Zone, Sundays-Thursdays 8 a.m.-11 p.m., Fridays-Saturdays 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Balboa Island Ferry, Mondays-Thursdays 6:30 a.m.-midnight, Fridays and Saturdays 6:30-2 a.m. Address and phone number: Balboa Fun Zone 600 E. Bay Ave. Balboa. 949.673.0408. Website: www.balboa-island.com and www.balboaislandferry.com 9. Huntington Beach Go to Surf City in the summertime. Huntington Beach’s coastline spans eight miles, and the pier, located at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Main Street, is the longest concrete pier in California. Nightlife for young teens and adults is abuzz along and around Main Street. In the day, some of Southern California’s best beach area. And, coming July 23-31, Bank of the West Beach Games, the action sport and lifestyle festival that showcases professional surfing, skateboarding, BMX, FMX and beach volleyball competitions along with live music and an oceanfront exposition. Cost: Free; held at the pier. Website: www.bankofthewestbeachgames.com Hours, surf: Beaches open 6 a.m.-10 p.m. www.hbonline.com/surfreport.htm 10. Catalina Just an hour away, you can escape to California’s most popular island that offers various tours, water activities, horseback riding, shopping, good dining and more. To get there you can travel by air or sea; either way a scenic view will be seen. There are different camping sites on the Two Harbors, while only one is offered on Avalon, which has more lodging available. How to get there: For information from Newport Beach, Long Beach, or San Pedro, call Catalina Island Chamber of Commerce at 310.510.1520. Website: www.catalina.com 11. Inland Empire Beach Trains From July 16 to Oct. 9, Metrolink runs the Beach Trains every Saturday and Sunday between Rialto and Oceanside, making a dozen stops throughout the Inland Empire and Orange County. Hours: The first train leaves Rialto at 7 a.m. and the last train leaves Oceanside at 7:25 p.m. Cost: Fares range from $10 to $16.25. Information: For complete fare and schedule information, call 800.371.LINK or 951.222.7000, ext. 2325. Website: www.metrolintrains.com beachtrains or www.rctc.org 4 favorite Beaches Where to go along the Orange County coast 12. Huntington State Beach In Surf City, there is this wide, 2-mile-long beach. For eating, running, swimming, castle-making, surfing. You can rent pedal-pushers to go up and down the strand. Only drawback is it is occasionally windy. Off Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach. 13. Crystal Cove State Park The three miles of beach are popular for swimmers, surfers, snorklers, scuba divers and families that explore the tide pools and play on the expanse of sand. Go at low tide. There is a longish walk from the parking lot (use the restrooms before you hike in), so you may want a stroller or wagon. Parking is $8-$10. Location: Along Pacific Coast Highway between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach. Open sunrise to sunset. 14. Main Beach Laguna’s Main Beach is where the city meets the surf. At one end are tide pools and rocks for climbing. Places to play basketball, volleyball and to inline skate. And when it’s time for a change of pace, walk into town to view a collection of stores and to find some of Orange County’s best restaurants. Off Pacific Coast Highway at Highway 138. Bring quarters for metered parking, which is everywhere. 15. Big Corona Consistently rated one of the top family beaches in Orange County, it is also known as Corona del Mar State Beach. With a snack bar and equipment rental, volleyball, picnic tables, restrooms, showers and fire rings. Parking can be a problem in summer. Off Pacific Coast Highway on Ocean Avenue near Marigold. The Big Two: 16. Disneyland “The happiest place on earth” can be enjoyed anytime during the year. It is celebrating its 50th anniversary, so crowds are expected to be heavy through Labor Day. Hours in July: Disneyland Park 8 a.m.-midnight.; Downtown Disney district 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Single-day theme park ticket ages 3 and up $43/ages 10 and up $53. Packages available. Address and phone number: 1300 South Harbor Blvd., Anaheim. 714. 781.4560. Website: www.disneyland.com 17. Knott’s Berry Farm and Soak City USA With the main theme park, Soak City, shopping and dining, summer fun will begin for the whole family. July Hours: Most days are from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., but may extend to 11 p.m. Cost: Southern California residents adults $29.95 (must show proof of residence)/children (3-11) $14.95. Soak City adults $25.95/children (3-11) $14.95. After 3 p.m., reduced admission to Soak City. Address and phone number: 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park. 714.220.5200. Website: www.knotts.com Adventure & Sports (#18-36) 18. Can’t-miss Angels games Sportswriters predict the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim will win the Western Division of the American League. Among the can’t-miss series are those against the Yankees and Red Sox; and later in the season, the Rangers. The dates to remember are: • July 21-24: Angels vs. Yankees • Aug. 18-21: Angels vs. Red Sox • Sept. 20-22: Angels vs. Rangers Cost: Tickets start at $9 adults/$5 children. Address and phone number: 2000 Gene Autry Way, Anaheim. 714.634.2000. 19. Mountains to Sea Trail A 22-mile Mountains to Sea Trail was officially completed in May that allows hikers, runners and mountain bikers to follow a trail system from one end of the Irvine Ranch to the other. The trail begins at Weir Canyon in Anaheim Hills (it is accessed from Irvine Regional Park) to the Back Bay in Newport Beach. Two more trails are planned, including one that will run through the El Toro base when it is developed into the Great Park. Much of the natural land now available on the more than 50,000-acre Irvine Ranch Land Reserve is through docent-led groups (www.IrvineRanchLandReserve.com) and many acres will remain off-limits to protect the habitat. That makes the 22-mile Mountains to Sea Trail particularly relevant as hikers and bikers can travel the whole section, or a portion of it, on their own schedule. It is one of the longest natural corridors in any American urban environment. In all, some 25 miles of new trails are expected to be open on the reserve over the next five years for a total of 100 miles of trails. How to get there: From the 55 Freeway, exit Chapman Avenue and go east to Jamboree Road, turn left to Irvine Regional Park ($5 parking, more on holidays). 20. Minor league baseball Watch the young men who are working hard to fulfill their dream of becoming major-league ballplayers in an up close and personal environment at family-friendly prices. The three local California League teams, all in the Inland Empire, and their major-league affiliates are the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim), Lake Elsinore Storm (San Diego Padres), and the Inland Empire 66ers (Seattle Mariners). Information: Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, 909.481.5000, www.rcquakes.com. Lake Elsinore Storm, 951.245.4487, www.stormbaseball.com. Inland Empire 66ers, www.ie66ers.com 21. Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo The richest two-day rodeo in the nation, presented Aug. 27-28 at Oaks Blenheim Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, features the top rodeo contestants in saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping and team roping. Cost: $20 adults/children (4-12) $10/children 3 and under free. Address: At the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway in San Juan Capistrano. Website: www.rmvrodeo.com 22. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus The all-new 135th edition, presented July 27-Aug. 7 at the Arrowhead Pond, features death-defying athletes, live animals and the famous funsters of clowns. Cost: $13-$85. Address: 2695 Katella Ave., Anaheim. Website: www.ringling.com or arrowheadpond.com 23. Concerts at Verizon Wireless Ampitheater The Pacific Symphony Orchestra’s 4th of July event features the Kingston Trio, which is a star-spangled celebration honoring American heroes at 8 p.m. Show listing: www.verizonwirelessamphitheater.com Address: 8808 Irvine Center Dr. Educational & Fun 24. Kidseum The 11,000-square-foot children’s museum, which is a part of The Bowers, provides arts and cultural activities for children and their families. Address and phone number: 1802 North Main St., Santa Ana 714.567.3600. Website: www.bowers.org/kidseum/kidseum.asp 25. Discovery Science Center The 59,000-square-foot learning center features nearly 100 interactive displays that help unearth the mysteries and dynamics of science. On display through Sept. 11, “Space: Next Stop Mars.” The summer exhibit allows guests to explore the excitement and challenges of being an astronaut. Hours: Daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. except major holidays. Cost: Adults $11/seniors and youths (3-17) $8.50/children 2 and under free. Address and contact information: 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana. 714.542.CUBE. 26. Bowers Museum Special exhibition: “Mummies: Death and the Afterlife in Ancient Egypt.” Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays (closed Monday) Admission: Adults $17 weekdays, $19 weekends/seniors and students $12 weekdays, $14 weekends/children under 5 free. Address and information: 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 714.567.3600; www.bowers.org 27. L.A. County Fair The annual event in Pomona is Sept. 9-Oct. 2, though closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Contests in several categories are now open. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays; 10 a.m.-midnight Saturdays; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays. Cost: Ranges from $5-$15/children 5 and under free. Address and information: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona. www.lacountyfair.com or 909.865.4233. 28. KidZone Riverside County Youth Museum Hands-on learning through permanent and traveling exhibits. The KidZone invites families and children to its interactive learning experiences in the areas of math, science, technology, and the arts, with an emphasis on kids from tots to teens. Address, etc.: 123 S. Carmalita, Hemet. 951.765.1223. Website: www.kidzone.org 29. Temecula Children’s Museum The museum is home to the Imagination Workshop. The reclusive genius Professor Phineas T. Pennypickle scientist, time traveler, and wildly creative inventor does some of his best work here. The 7,500-square-foot workshop is filled with the professor’s work. Address, etc.: 42081 Main St., Temecula. 951.308.6370. www.pennypickles.org 30. Horseback riding in Chino Prado Equestrian Center is conveniently located near Prado Regional Park; this is a fine place for a day of family horseback riding. Rental horses are available for riding the trails around the park and the lake. Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays, with the last ride leaving each day at 4 p.m. Cost: $20 for one hour/$15 for each additional hour. Address, etc.: 16629 Johnson Ave., Chino. 909.597.5757. http://pradoequestrian.homestead.com/ 31. Irvine Spectrum Center Movies, shops, restaurants, entertainment and games galore will keep the whole family happy. From The Cheesecake Factory to The Yard House, there are a variety of family pleasing places. The center has a carousel and a Big Wheel. Hours: Sundays-Thursdays, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fridays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Address and phone number: 71 Fortune Dr., Irvine. Located between the 405 and 5 Freeway. 949.753.5180. Website: www.shopirvinespectrumcenter.com 32. The Block at Orange Lucky Strike bowling alley is a good bet, as well as dining at the Alcatraz Brewing Company or Wolfgang Puck Café. Address, etc.: 20 City Boulevard West, Orange, at the I-5, 22 and 57. 33. Victoria Gardens A new shopping, dining and entertainment venue. The center is home to more than 100 shops and restaurants all arranged in a 12-block village. Address, etc.: Foothill Boulevard exit at the I-15, Rancho Cucamonga. 909.463.2828. Website: www.victoriagardensie.com 34. Ontario Mills It is one of California’s premier shopping centers and offers more than 200 retailers including a mix of retail outlets and stores, name-brand discounters plus AMC theaters. Address, etc.: One Mills Circle, Ontario. Intersection of I-10 and 15. Website: www.ontariomills.com Laguna Beach/Classics 35. Pageant of the Masters Ninety minutes of “living pictures, art re-creations of classical and contemporary works with real people posing to look exactly like their counterparts in the original pieces. An outdoor amphitheater, orchestra, original score, live narration, intricate sets and hundreds of dedicated volunteers have won recognition for the pageant as the best presentation of its kind. The 2005 theme: “On the Road: A Crash Course in Art and Popular Culture.” Hours: 8:30 p.m., from July 7-Sept. 1. Cost: Date and seat prices range from $15-$30. Address and phone number: 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. 800.487.3378. Website: www.foapom.com 36. The Sawdust Festival Stroll on the sawdust in search of one-of-a-kind artwork, including paintings, jewelry, ceramics, photographs, sculptures, hand-blown glass and more. Plus, children’s art activities, refreshments and live entertainment. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m., from July 1-Sept. 4. Metered parking. Address and phone number: 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. 949.494.3030. Website: www.sawdustartfestival.org 37. Idyllwild, Riverside County While offering hiking trails, Nature Center and scenic views, Idyllwild is a great place to go for its variety of shops, art galleries, antique stores, cafes and restaurants. Hours: Vary, depending on stores, restaurants and galleries. Address and phone number: From I-10 East or West and I-15, take CA-243 to Idyllwild. Idylwild Chamber, 888.659.3259. Website: www.idyllwild.com or www.idyllwildchamber.com 38. Orange Empire Railway Museum West’s largest collection of railway locomotives, passenger and freight cars, streetcars and other artifacts dating from the 1870s. On weekends and most major holidays you can actually ride on some of the operating trolleys and passenger trains. Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Address, etc.: 2201 South A St., Perris. 951.657.2605 Website: www.oerm.org 39. San Bernardino County Regional Parks The parks are not only wonderful urban getaways, suitable for family picnics or day-hiking, four of them also have full-scale water parks featuring water slides and swimming lagoons that are open from the Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Those parks are Yucaipa Regional, Lake Gregory, Cucamonga-Guasti, and Glen Helen. Address, etc.: Cucamonga-Guasti, 800 N. Archibald Ave., Ontario, 909.481.4205. Glen Helen, 2555 Glen Helen Pkwy., San Bernardino, 909.887.7540. Lake Gregory, 24171 Lake Dr., Crestline, 909.338.2233. Yucaipa Regional, 33900 Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa, 909.790.3127. 40. Castle Park The 25 acres includes four 18-hole miniature golf courses, a two-level arcade with various games of skill, and more than 200 state-of-the-art video games, and a ride park open on weekends with more than 30 rides and attractions such as miniature railroads and a log flume ride. The Big Top Restaurant is perfect for that special birthday party. Hours: Miniature golf and arcade open Mondays through Thursdays noon-9 p.m.; Fridays noon-11 p.m.; Saturdays 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sundays 11 a.m.-10 p.m. The ride park is open Fridays 5-10 p.m.; Saturdays 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sundays 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Address and phone number: 3500 Polk St., Riverside. 951.785.3000. Website: www.castlepark.com 41. March Field Museum The museum, adjacent to the March Air Reserve Base in Riverside, is home to more than 60 historic aircraft and displays on the history of the March base. Outside the museum is the Heritage Courtyard that includes the 15th Air Force Wall and the War Dog Memorial Sculpture. Cost: Adults $7/children (5-11) $3/under 5 free. Address and phone number: 22550 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside. 951.697.6600. Website: www.marchfield.org 42. Riley’s Farm This working apple orchard in Oak Glen is also a living history farm that serves as a venue for various historic re-enactments such as Civil War and Revolutionary War battles, Old West events, and Mountain Man reunions. Riley’s Farm is also a popular destination for school field trips, weddings, company picnics and banquets. The farm’s Chesterfield Colonial Village is a recreation of a small American town of the pre-revolutionary era. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. Address, etc.: 12261 Oak Glen Road, Oak Glen. 909.797.7534. Website: www.rileysfarm.com 43. Mulligan’s Family Fun Center Have some family fun with all the attractions available, like the arcade, mini golf, batting cage, kiddie coral, go carts, blaster boats and more. Address and phone number: 24950 Madison Ave., Murrieta. 951.696.9696. Website: www.mulliganfun.com 44. Pharaoh’s Lost Kingdom The Sphinx and pyramid, visible from the 10 Freeway, mark the Inland Empire’s largest water resort and theme park. Visitors can enjoy a water park with 14 exciting ways to cool off, an amusement park with carnival style rides and midway attractions, a large video arcade, and four individually themed miniature golf courses. Cost: Includes all-access passes. Address, etc.: 1101 N. California St., Redlands. 909.335.7275. Website: www.pharaohslostkingdom.com 45. Oak Glen This apple-growing region in the San Bernardino Mountain foothills east of Yucaipa and north of Beaumont is home to several farms that offer visitors the chance to pick their own apples and have cider-making demonstrations during the fall harvest season and restaurants that are open year-round. To get there, take either the Live Oak Canyon or Beaumont Avenue exits from the 10 Freeway. One of the highlights of Oak Glen is Riley’s Farm. 46. Vertical Wind Tunnel Experience the thrill of skydiving without actually having to jump out of an airplane. Address and phone number: 2091 Goetz Road, Perris. 951.940.4290. Website: www.skydiveperris.com 47. Tom’s Farms Started out as little more than a produce stand 30 years ago. Family fun center featuring a steam powered train and an old-time carousel with wooden horses. Address, etc.: 23900 Temescal Canyon Road, Corona. 951.277.4422. 48. Mountain biking in Big Bear Ride the lifts used in the winter to get to the top of the mountain with your bike, then ride down. Phone, etc.: Snow Summit, 909.866. 5766. www.bigbear.us/mountainbiking.html 49. A healthy heart The weather is good, we have a little more free time and the American Heart Association tells us that this is a good opportunity to develop some heart-healthy habits. Swimming, cycling, jogging, or walking are some of the simple things we can do maintain a healthier heart. It doesn’t even have to be part of a structured exercise program. We can spend less time with the TV and computer and do more physical things around the home this summer. That’s a good example to set for our kids, too. Visit www.americanheart.org for more tips on living a healthier lifestyle. Special Events: Two local chapters of the American Heart Association are sponsoring Heart Walks in September, the 25th Annual Orange County Heart Walk Sept. 18 at the Irvine Spectrum in Irvine, and the Inland Empire Heart Walk Sept. 25 at Pharaoh’s Lost Kingdom in Redlands. For information about these events,call 909.424.1670 for the Inland Empire, 949.856.3555 for Orange County. Play sports! 50. Sports build young bodies, teach self-reliance, promote team-building, all within a fun, healthy environment. 51. Sibling time together When all else fails, find a friend in a brother or a sister and use up summertime getting to know the person who may very well be your best friend for all your life. 52. Visit the library In addition to ongoing storytimes and activities, most libraries will offer a Summer Reading Program for children. 53. Ice Castle If you need that taste of winter sports in the summer, the Ice Castle Training Center in Lake Arrowhead offers recreational ice skating on Tuesday and Friday evenings and Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Cost: $8 for recreational skating/$2 for skate rental. Group discounts are available. Address and phone number: 401 Burnt Mill Road, Lake Arrowhead. 909.337.0802. Website: www.icecastle.us For Foodies 54. Ruby’s Diner Ruby’s Diner includes Riverside and Temecula restaurants. It has long attracted families tired of another dollop of fast food. The 1940s-style restaurants appeal to young parents, their children, and grandparents as well. The menu hasn’t gone stale in more than two decades of business. And if you like burgers, there are more than 60 different ways they can be served up. Hours: Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Cost: $3.99 and upwards. Address: www.rubys.com 55. Shake Shack A peanut butter and banana sandwich on wheat bread and a strawberry is too good to pass up at the world-famous Shake Shack. Also, order up a shake and watch the sunset. Address: Pacific Coast Highway, next to historic Crystal Cove between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach. 56. Palm Springs Aerial Tram Takes you to either cool or cold weather. Climing from 2,643 feet from the Valley Station to 8,516 feet in the Mountain Station. At the top, where at least snippets of snow remain year-round, find 54 miles of hiking trails and primitive campgrounds. At the least, bring a picnic and a blanket in which to sit. Cost: Adults $21/seniors $19/children (3-12) $14. Address and phone number: One Tramway Road/Chino Canyon (off Hwy. 111), Palm Springs. 760.325.1449. Website: www.pstramway.com 57. The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens The desert, botanical gardens, plants and animals are an unbeatable combination for families of all ages. You would be hard-pressed to find an environment that serves so many age groups, with so many interests, so well. Don’t miss the 450 animals and Village WaTuTu. Also, take time out for the model train display. Hours: Shorter during summer. Address, etc.: 47-900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert, 92260. 760.346.5694. Website: www.livingdesert.org 58. Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert For all ages, with an emphasis on primary school-age children. Hours: Closed Mondays through December, otherwise, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Cost: $6, ages 2 and up. Address, etc.: 71-701 Gerald Ford Dr., Rancho Mirage, 92270. 760.321.0602. Website: www.cdmod.org 59. Palm Springs Air Museum The museum exhibits and educates about the vital role of the World War II combat aircraft, the pilots, and American citizens. You can go through a number of planes, and gaze upon some of the others in the 26-plane collection. Includes a 67,000-square-foot air conditioned building for viewing and exhibits, including short movies. Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Summer hours may vary. Cost: Adults $10/seniors and military $8.50/children (6-17) $5/under 6 free. Address and phone number: North side of the Palm Springs Airport, 745 N. Gene Autry Trail. 760.778.6262. Website: www.air-museum.org 60. Joshua Tree National Park One of the great wonders of Southern California, where beauty and ruggedness meet (see Travel story in upcoming August issue). It is northeast of Palm Springs and is a perfect hike for all ages and abilities. Great picnic areas and vistas. Go for four hours, or four days. Hours: Open year-round. Weather exceeds 100 degrees July-September. Cost: $10 per vehicle and good for seven consecutive days. Annual pass is $25. Address, etc.: Joshua Tree can be reached from two ways, either taking the 62 off I-10 through Yucca Valley, or remain on I-10 past Indio. 760.367.5500 or 760.367.5525. www.joshuatree.org/visitor/index2.html; of particular help is the A-Z info button. 61. Balloon rides Sip champagne while floating effortlessly as the experienced pilot provides a guided tour in one of their colorful hot air balloons. Address, etc.: Balloon Above the Desert, 83232 East Avenue 44, Indio. 800.342.8506. www.balloonabovethedesert.com 62. Date Plantation The Oasis Date Gardens, established in 1912, is a 175-acre date garden with a palm arboretum, a packinghouse, a ranch store and a garden cafe. Tours are given daily. Address, etc.: 59-111 Highway, Thermal. 800.827.8017. www.oasisdategardens.com 63. Balboa Park The expansive park is minutes away from downtown San Diego. More than 85 cultural and recreational organizations. including 15 museums. 619.239.0512.www.balboapark.org 64. Seaport Village, San Diego San Diego’s landmark for waterfront shopping and dining offers 57 one-of-a-kind shops and galleries, restaurants, monthly events. Website: www.spvillage.com 65. Maritime Museum of San Diego It has a worldwide reputation for excellence in restoring, maintaining and operating historic vessels, and has a variety of programs for children and adults. Address, etc.: 1492 North Harbor Dr., San Diego. 619.234.9153. www.sdmaritime.com 66. SeaWorld Enjoy the fun and fireworks of Summer Nights through September 5, along with exciting attractions, tours, rides, shows and educational programs, which are always available to thrill any SeaWorld guest. You can even dine with Shamu. Address and phone number: 500 SeaWorld Dr., San Diego. 1.800.25.SHAMU. Website: www.seaworld.com, click on “SeaWorld San Diego.” 67. San Diego Zoo With so many animals and attractions to see, there are many exciting summer camps in July and August available for children (kindergartners through 7th-graders) as well. Address, etc.: 2920 Zoo Dr., San Diego (just north of downtown San Diego). For general information, call 619.234.3153. Camps 619.557.3969. Website: www.sandiegozoo.org 68. Wild Animal Park Many adventures are to be seen at San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park, like The Wgasa Bush Line Railway - vast field exhibits filled with herds of wild critters. Much more. Address, etc.: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido. 760.747.8702. www.sandiegozoo.org/wap/visitor_info.html 69. Legoland From July 1-Aug. 31, A Spark in the Knight Fireworks Spectacular will bring a daring damsels and brave knights show each Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening. In celebration of their newest attraction, Knights’ Tournament, the pyrotechnic display with an original musical soundtrack is a symphonic classic tale of chivalry and daring. Address and phone number: One Legoland Dr., Carlsbad. 760.918.5346. Website: www.legolandca.com 70. Gaslamp/ Horton Plaza, San Diego The Gaslamp Quarter is a premier dining, entertainment and shopping district in downtown San Diego. With Victorian-style commercial buildings and glowing gas lamps, you will get a unique experience going to the different art galleries, boutiques, unique shops, pubs and restaurants. Across the street stands Horton Plaza, and with 7 levels twisted through 6 1/2 city blocks you can tour 140 shops, restaurants, boutiques and bistros, such as Macy’s, Nordstrom’s and California Café Bar & Grill. Address, etc.: The Gaslamp Quarter is eight blocks long (from Broadway to Harbor Dr.) and two blocks wide (from Fourth to Sixth Avenues). Gaslamp Quarter Association, 619.233.5227. The Horton Plaza - 324 Horton Plz, San Diego. 619.238.1596. www.gaslamp.org or http://gothere.com/sandiego/Horton 71. Mission Bay (renting boats) Cruise around Mission Bay on fishing boats, powerboats or sailboats and get serene views of the water and local surroundings. Family excursions on the water can be a fun and enjoyable experience. Sunset sails are also available. Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Last rental is 5:30 p.m. Cost (cheapest): Powerboats $48 per hour, sailboats $30 per hour, fishing boats $45 for four hours. Address, etc.: Seaforth Boat Rentals, West Mission Bay Dr. (1641 Quivira Road), San Diego. From 5 Freeway, take Sea World Dr. exit, going west and exit onto West Mission Bay Dr.. Turn left at first traffic light, Quivira Road. 619.223.1681. www.seaforthboatrental.com 72. Julian Pie Company From local orchards, thousands of bushels of apples find their way into the many pies sold locally at the Julian Pie Company’s two locations and throughout San Diego County. In 1986, Keith and Liz Smothers began a small pie shop in Julian, serving hot apple pie (other kinds, too) and coffee, which would delight the whole family. Hours: SundayThursday 9 a.m.5 p.m. Cost: Whole pies are $14.95. Address and phone number: 2225 Main Street, Julian and 21967 Highway 79, Santa Ysabel. 760.765.2400. Pies are sold at many locations throughout San Diego County as well. Website: www.julianpie.com 73. Trolley car to Tijuana from San Diego For an easy and fun way to take public transportation to Tijuana, take a trolley. Just under an hour, you can get take the trolley from different stations in San Diego across the border. Info: Trolleys run approximately between 4:45 a.m.- 1 a.m. $1.50-$3 one-way. Fares increase by the distance traveled. 619.595.4949. Website: www.sdcommute.com 74. Old Town Old Town San Diego State Historic Park recreates life in the Mexican and early American periods of 1821-1872. Five original adobes are part of the complex, which includes shops, restaurants and a museum. La Casa de Estudillo is a mansion built around a garden courtyard. Address, etc.: Located on San Diego Avenue and Twiggs Street in San Diego. 619.220.5422. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=663, or www.sandiegohistory.org/links/oldtown.htm 75. Del Mar, horse racing Parents can place their bets on horses at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, while their children ages 5-12 can have fun at Camp Del Mar where they have many activities to do. Address, etc.: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar. It is located just west of the I-5 at the Via de la Valle exit. 858.755.1141 or 858.793.5533. Ticket office - 877.LETSBET. Website: www.dmtc.com and www.campdelmar.com |
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