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07.20.2010 | 12 for tuesday: kid-friendly (disc & mini) golf courses

Welcome to 12 for Tuesday, where we highlight 12 great finds in & around Orange County. This week we are featuring 12 golf courses you (& the kids) will LOVE. I don’t know about you, but when I was a kid I loved playing frisbee golf (although these days they call it “Disc Golf”) & miniature golf. Can’t wait to see if my kids enjoy it as much as I do. Unless otherwise noted, the “Disc Golf” courses are FREE, although the courses tend to be BYOF (bring your own frisbee). Want to make it even more challenging? Try Disc Golfing at night…

1. Twila-Reid Park, 3100 W. Orange Ave.,  Anaheim: FREE 9-Hole Disc Golf Course

2. Liberty Park, 19211 Studebaker Road, Cerritos: FREE 9-Hole Disc Golf Course

3. Prado Regional Park, 16700 S. Euclid Ave., Chino:  FREE 18-Hole Disc Golf Course (parking fee $7 M-F, $10 on weekends)

4. River Walk Park, 7674 Soaring Bird Court, Corona: FREE 7-Hole Disc Golf Course

5. Deerfield Park, 55 Deerwood West, Irvine: FREE 9-Hole Disc Golf Course

6. Huntington Beach Central Park, 18000 Goldenwest St., HB (west side of Goldenwest, across the street from the Sports Complex): 18-Hole Disc Golf Course, cost ranges from $1 on weekdays to $2 on weekends.

7. La Mirada Regional Park, Alicante Road & Adelfa Drive, La Mirada: FREE 36-Hole Disc Golf Course

8. El Dorado Park West, 2800 Studebaker Road, Long Beach: FREE 18-Hole Disc Golf Course

9. Frontier Park, 1400 Mitchell Ave., Tustin: FREE 9-Hole Disc Golf Course

10. Camelot Golfland, 3200 Carpenter Ave., Anaheim: prices start at $7.95 for adults, $7.45 for children 11 & under, and FREE for children ages 4 & under (one additional 18 hole course replay available for $4)

11. Boomer’s Miniature Golf, Fountain Valley & Irvine: prices vary depending on location

12. Golf n’ Stuff, 10555 E. Firestone Blvd., Norwalk: $8.50 per person, children 3 or younger are FREE with one paid round, find coupons HERE.

xoxo, K

by C & K in 12 for Tuesday, ALWAYS Free & Cheap, Beyond Orange County, Parks, Playgrounds & Nature, Summer 2010, Things To Do in OC with No Comments
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07.15.2010 | Free admission: hammer museum

This Saturday, July 17th from 11am – 6pm the Hammer Museum & Machine Project invite you to participate in a day-long sound installation by composer Chris Kallmyer. “All visitors will be issued a small bell, which they can wear as they move through the galleries, courtyard, lobby, and other public spaces. Admission to the museum will be FREE of charge to all participants. Additional bell related sound pieces will take place throughout the day, including circulating ice cream carts, animatronic Santa bells in the museum’s coatroom, and an African bell ensemble.”

If you aren’t familiar with the Hammer Museum, it’s a “cutting-edge arts institution that connects the classics and the contemporary through its varied collections, wide-ranging exhibitions, and provocative program.” Located on the UCLA campus, the museum is opened Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday (11am – 7pm), Thursdays (11am – 9pm) & Sundays (11am – 5pm). Admission is usually $7 for adults, $5 for seniors 65+ & UCLA Alumni Association Members with ID,  FREE for visitors 17 & under (when accompanied by an adult), & FREE for all visitors on Thursdays.

Be sure to check out their Hammer Kids Programs. Sunday, July 18th is a Dream House Workshop featuring Ellen Seiden, Sunday, August 15th is a Chitty Chitty Bang Bang movie screening, Sunday August 22nd is a Musical & Written Phrases Workshop featuring Brendan Carn.

xoxo, K
image via the Hammer Museum

by C & K in Beyond Orange County, Disney Tips & Tricks, Museums, Arts & Culture, Special Events with No Comments
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07.07.2010 | summer at the skirball

The kids are home from summer, & slowly but surely you’re running out of “things to do.” Don’t you worry… we’ve got the perfect day trip, if you don’t mind venturing outside the “Orange County bubble.”

Located just up the “road,” right off the 405 (if you want to get specific), the Skirball Cultural Center is one museum that is definitely worth the drive. In recent years the Skirball has “established itself as one of the world’s most dynamic Jewish cultural institutions.” Featuring changing exhibitions, engaging music, theater, comedy, film, family literary programs & an interactive family destination inspired by the Noah’s Ark story – I can pretty much guarantee that once you visit the Skirball, you’ll be busy planning your next visit.

This summer the Skirball Cultural Center has a lot up their sleeve when it comes to families & children…

* Noah’s Ark: Inside a floor-to-ceiling wooden ark, filled to the rafters with whimsical animals, you and your family will play, build, climb, explore, make music, make friends, and more. Conduct a storm, help construct the ark, and bask in the glow of a beautiful rainbow. Mingle with hundreds of fancifully handcrafted animals—from cuddly companions to life-sized puppets—all crafted from recycled materials and everyday objects, including bottle caps, bicycle parts, baseball mitts, croquet balls, mop heads, and rear-view mirrors.

* Drop-in Art Studio: drop in anytime during regular museum hours (everyday through September 5th, except Mondays) & unleach your creativity. The Skirball’s drop-in art studio will feature a rotating menu of unique take-home projects-incorporating recycled materials and other fanciful resources-that focus on exploring, reimagining, and enhancing the world around us.

* Dig It! Archeological Adventures: drop in anytime during regular museum hours (Thursday – Sunday during the summer) & experience the history of the ancient Near East hands-on at the Skirball’s outdoor simulated archaeological dig. Participants will learn methods of excavating a site and the importance of preserving archaeological artifacts.

Plus, check out all of these Family Amphitheater Performances happening this summer:

* Masanga Marimbam, Saturday, July 10, noon and 2:00 pm: Enjoy Masanga Marimba, a marimba ensemble that combines both Latin and African traditions to create an upbeat, danceable sound that is unique and irresistible.

* We Tell Stories, Sunday, July 11, noon and 2:00 pm: Don’t miss We Tell Stories as they bring folktales, myths, and literature from around the world to life by actively involving audiences in storytelling and improvisation.

* Kinetic Theory, Saturday, July 17, noon and 2:00 pm & Saturday, August 21, noon and 2:00 pm: Join us under the Skirball big top for a one-of-a-kind theatrical performance by Kinetic Theory. The troupe explores and expands the boundaries of physical and circus theatre with performances that will captivate all.

* Family Dance Jam, Sunday, July 18, noon and 2:00 pm: Move and groove with Ilaan Egeland Mazzini as she gets the whole family dancing. Audience members will make a deeper connection with each other and their bodies in a fun and playful way.

* Jessica Fichot, Saturday, July 24, noon and 2:00 pm: Experience the music of Jessica Fichot as she takes you on a journey that encompasses the French chanson tradition, gypsy jazz, Chinese and Latin American folk music, and the classic American repertoire, all interpreted through her wonderful imagination.

* Wildlife On Wheels (WOW), Sunday, July 25, noon and 2:00 pm & Saturday, August 28, noon and 2:00 pm: Rub wings, scales, and claws with animals from around the world as Noah’s Ark comes to life with Wildlife on Wheels. WOW shares a variety of exotic animals from the scaly to the furry and discusses the role these animals play in their natural habitats.

* Catch Me Bird, Saturday, July 31, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: Nehara Kalev and C. Derrick Jones excite audiences with high-velocity dance, theater, and aerobatics. This amazing action-packed performance invites audience members to help create a communal tour de force.

* Kutturan Chamoru Performers, Sunday, August 1, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: Come see this wonderful troupe as they perform traditional songs, chants, and dance from the Pacific Island Micronesian Region.

* Aaron Nigel Smith, Saturday, August 7, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: Enjoy this performance from award-winning children’s artist Aaron Nigel Smith as he gets the whole family moving with his hip, original songs that are both inspiring and fun.

* Hug Trees, Sunday, August 8, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: Hear singer-songwriter Tom Freund and friends bring a jazzy and rootsy vibe to songs that encourage children and families to get outdoors, enjoy nature, and be kind to our planet.

* Antics Performance, Saturday, August 14, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: Join Antics Performance for a unique urban dance performance. Experience popping, locking, break dance, and hip-hop dance from one of L.A.’s best.

* Rhythm Child, Sunday, August 15, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: Get your body moving with Rhythm Child as they lead families in a participatory drum circle creating sounds, beats, and fun for all ages.

* Los Pinguos, Sunday, August 22, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: Listen as Los Pinguos brings an infectious mix of Latin rhythms performed with Spanish guitars, Cuban Tres, box-drum, and harmonizing vocals.

* Chinese Lion Dance, Sunday, August 29, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: Let the Northern Shaolin Kung Fu Association Lion Dance Team chase away evil spirits and bring you good fortune as they perform the traditional Chinese Lion Dance.

* Taiko Center of Los Angeles, Saturday, September 4, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: Experience one of Japan’s oldest musical traditions! Join the Taiko Center of Los Angeles, one of L.A.’s top taiko drum groups, as they share their crowd-pleasing rhythms.

* Chinese Mask Changing, Sunday, September 5, 12:00 and 2:00 pm: See the magic of world-renowned Chinese Opera Face Change as it wows both young and old.

The Skirball Cultural Center is open Tuesday – Friday, 12-5pm and Saturday – Sunday 10am – 5pm, and is closed on Mondays. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors 65+ and full-time students, $5 for children 2-12 & FREE for children 2 and under. In additions, ALL exhibitions are FREE to the public on Thursdays.

* Noah’s Ark at the Skirball often sells out in advance for visits on Thursdays and on weekends. Same-day, walk-up tickets to Noah’s Ark are subject to availability. Walk-up tickets are typically available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Advance tickets are recommended for weekends, free Thursdays, and during school holidays for all Noah’s Ark visitors, including Members. To ensure a safe and pleasant visitor experience, all Noah’s Ark ticketholders are assigned an entry time, permitting up to two hours in the Noah’s galleries.Go to tickets.skirball.org or call (877) SCC-4TIX or (877) 722-4849 to purchase your tickets in advance and to guarantee your preferred date and entry time. Admission for the Noah’s Ark exhibit is the same cost at the rest of the Museum (and is also FREE on Thursdays), & includes admission to all exhibitions.

xoxo, K
image via Skirball Cultural Center

by C & K in Beyond Orange County, Museums, Arts & Culture, Summer 2010 with 3 Comments
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03.30.2010 | 12 for Tuesday: Legoland Tips & Tricks

Welcome to 12 for Tuesday, were we highlight 12 great finds around (& beyond) OC. This week we’re exploring Legoland…

1. Looking to get the most “bang for your buck?” Visit Legoland for multiple days. Until May 20th, 2010 you can gain admission to Legoland for 5 days, all for the price of a 1 Day Hopper Ticket. That’s right, the same amount you pay for a 1 day hopper ticket can get you in for up to 5 consecutive days – that’s quite a deal! (Check out the 5 days for the Price of 1 offer & many more HERE.) Don’t worry if you won’t be able to make it to Legolandbefore May 20th, 2010 because every day of the year you can upgrade any 1-day ticket to a 2-day ticket for just $15. Just stop by the Guest Services BEFORE you leave the park on the first day your ticket is used. (Second visit must be within 9 days.) You can also upgrade to a “membership,” if you like as well.
2. Be sure to catch the newest flick to grace the silver screens at Legoland… Clutch Powers 4-D. (My boys can’t stop talking about it. Clutch is their new idol, that’s for sure.)
3. If you do watch a movie (any movie) at the LEGO Show Place, make sure your child’s 4-D glasses are tight fitting. The glasses are adult size & some pairs fit very loosely – you want your child to be able to wear the glasses, without them (or more likely you) having to hold the glasses up to their face the entire show. Trust me, the fit of the glasses can make all the difference in the world when it comes to your child (& your) viewing experience.
4. Have a budding builder? Be sure to stop by the Lego Club House in Fun Town where you can buy Legos by the pound.
5. More than likely you will be taking young children to Legoland(it is geared for 2-12 year olds)… please be aware that many of the rides have height restrictions. This means that for many of the rides rides, children must be at least 48″ tall to ride alone (if they are shorter than 48″, often times the child must ride with an adult). I point this out, simply so you are aware. If you are attending Legoland with multiple young children, I’d suggest having one adult per child. I know it probably sounds extreme, but let’s just say I’m talking from experience here. Let’s just say I was surprised (& disappointed) when I realized that with a group of 7 children (one of which was 10 years old & another an infant) & 3 adults, we were unable to ride most of the rides. (To check out the height requirements for all the attractions go HERE.)
6. On a hot day, be sure to bring the swimsuits – there’s plenty of ways to cool off. Even the littlest guests will enjoy getting wet on the Swabbies Deck.
7. When you are tired of rides, or just need a place to let your children “run free”, check out some of these Legoland Play areas: Playtown & the Musical Fountain in Explore Village, The Hideaways in Castle Hill, Adventurer’s Club & Lego Factory Tour in Fun Town,
8. Sometimes it’s hard for kids to be surrounded by some many Legos… all they want to do is build. Stop by the DUPLO play place in the Imagination Zone. It’s a “free-play” opprotunity for younger children with tens of thousands of Lego DUPLO bricks just waiting to be played with.
9. Looking for activities for older children? Check out these attractions:The Hideaways in Castle Hill, XBox Family Gamespace & Lego Mindstorms Robotics & Build and Test in the Imagination Zone.
10. While I’m sure there are lots of tasty offerings to be found throughout Legoland, we were thrilled to stumble across the restaurants in Fun Town. There was definitely something for everyone: hamburgers, hot dogs, Asian stir fry, Philly cheese steak sandwiches, a full salad bar & churros to die for!
11. If you’ve never had a Legoland pass, & you are a caregiver (Moms, Dad, Grandparents or other Caregiver) with children 4-years of age & under you can purchase a Model Mom Club membership for just $77. The pass is valid only on Thursdays, but it includes FREE parking, tons of discounts & Legoland offers a weekly activity group meet-up every Thursday, if you are interested (think Stroller Strides Fitness Walks, etc).
12. If you are going to Legoland on a super busy day, you can take advantage of their Premium Play Pass, otherwise known as a front of the line pass. Although pricey ($150 for adults & $130 for children), the pass includes one-day admission to Legoland, front-of-the-line privileges & reserved seating for shows. Premium Play Passes are available in a limited quantity, on a first-come, first-served basis at the outside Guest Services window.

xoxo, K

Legoland provided entrance passes for K. No compensation, of any kind, was received for this post & the opinions represented are 100% those of Just Spotted.

by C & K in 12 for Tuesday, Beyond Orange County with 1 Comment
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03.09.2010 | 12 for Tuesday: Glen Ivy Hot Spring Tips

This past weekend, we celebrated C’s birthday in grand style at Glen Ivy Hot Springs. We were primped, pampered & even got a little dirty. Located just outside the Orange County bubble, Glen Ivy Hot Springs is the perfect getaway – whether it’s for a couple of hours or an all day event.

1. Go with a friend, or even better a group of friends – Glen Ivy Hot Springs makes the perfect girls day out.
2. Pack for a day at the beach or pool. Don’t forget your swimsuit, sandals and a robe or cover-up. (Unlike typical spas Glen Ivy Hot Springs does not provide roves or slippers.)
3. Bring your own towel. Glen Ivy Hot Springs does provide towels which you should definitely use for the mud baths (why get yours dirty?). But for walking around, or lounging by the pool, we suggest you use your own, big, fluffy towel.
4. If you are planning on having any treatments, such as massages or facials, call ahead for reservations: 1-888-GLEN-IVY
5. If you are planning on taking a mud bath (which you most definitely should), bring an extra, older bathing suit (the mud can stain).
6. Make sure to soak in the mineral waters before your mud bath – it will help soften & open your pores.
7. Make sure to apply your mud liberally & let it dry out in the sun (or in their Wafa hut), to get the full effect… drawing from the pores, absorbing impurities and releasing waste and dead skin cells while tightening and revitalizing the skin.
8. Definitely eat lunch at Cafe Sole. We tasted salads, soups, sandwiches & wraps and everything was delicious.
9. Explore the ladies locker building. It’s so much more than just lockers… steam rooms & Roman baths all available for your use.
10. If scheduling a massage ask for Lupe or Brad Jensen, you won’t be disappointed.
11. Take advantage of Glen Ivy Hot Springs‘ Anniversary Admission Wednesdays ($18.60 admission every Wednesday throughout March 2010) or their 2 for 1 Admission Tuesdays and Thursday (Receive two admissions for the price of one every Tuesday & Thursday throughout March 2010), & FREE admission on your Birthday.
12. On your way home be sure to stop at Tom’s Farms for freshly made guacamole & salsa, gourmet sweet, roasted corn & so much more.

Glen Ivy Hot Springs
2500 Glen Ivy Rd.
Corona, Ca 92883
(888) GLEN-IVY

For Hours & Rates go HERE.

xoxo, C & K

Glen Ivy Hot Spring provided entrance passes for C & K. No compensation, of any kind, was received for this post & the opinions represented are 100% those of Just Spotted.

by C & K in 12 for Tuesday, Beyond Orange County with No Comments
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07.14.2009 | Visiting Chicago, with Kids

Meet Heather, a mom of two, who is always on the go, & my good friend! An Orange Native, she is just finishing up a one year stint, living in the the windy city. She is always out & about with her kiddos, so I knew she was the perfect person to take on a tour of Chicago with kids.

Chicago is one of the most kid friendly big cities I have been to. I have been lucky enough to call Michigan Avenue or the “Magnificent Mile” home for the last 9 months, and I have loved every moment of it. There are so many fun things to do in Chicago I feel like I could easily write a book….Here are some of my absolute, favorite things to do in Chicago, with kids, in no particular order:

* Millennium Park: I just love this park and the tourist’s fascination with the “bean”…the funny thing is, whenever I take anyone to the bean, the whole way there they make fun of me. But, as soon as we are there, they are just as fascinated with it, as everyone else. It is really fun to take reflection pictures in it. If you are at the park during the summer bring the kids swimsuits or a change of clothes – there is a fun fountain to play in. And every evening they have free concerts at the amphitheatre… it really is fun to sit on the grass have a picnic dinner and listen to some music.
* The Art Institute: This is one of our favorite places. Located just south of Millennium Park, you can look at some amazing pieces of art. To keep my kids entertained we make up stories about the works of art. They have just recently opened the new Modern Wing there, and they have free art projects every Saturday morning at 10 a.m. for the kids. My kids LOVE this. Also, in the basement of the museum there is a Kraft Education Center for the kids where they can touch art, make art, and read tons of books. After you are done here you must stop by Sugar Bliss. This is honestly the one reason I work out every day! My personal favorites are: Red Velvet, Chocolate Peppermint, and really all of them are delicious. My kids’ favorite is the icing shots.
* Children’s Museum: This is my sons favorite place to be, and to tell you the truth I love it too. You can seriously play in here for hours. Located on Navy Pier, makes it convenient for a fun filled day! We spend a lot of time at Navy Pier where there is food, shopping, and lots of entertainment.
* Lincoln Park Zoo: An amazing zoo…it’s free too! I love this zoo. We spend many days walking around looking at all the animals. There is a little farm there as well, where you can get up close to a milking cows, and if you time it right, there is even a demonstration. This zoo is a must.
* Oz Park: After the zoo you should stop by Oz Park, one of the best parks in Chicago. I love those warm summer days playing on the playground. It is an amazing park. After your kids have played you should stop by Minnie’s. We have fallen in love with this little restaurant. Everything you order is “Minnie,” and you must try the original mini freeze.
* There are many other noteworthy museums…such as: The Museum of Science and Industry, the Aquarium, and The Field Museum each one so amazing…we really enjoy all the museums of the city.

Each day in Chicago is a fun adventure…we love walking around the city noticing all the different buildings. Be sure to show your kids the Tribune Tower where they have pieces of other famous buildings – they even have steel from the Twin Towers! & Of coures, the most important part in any city is to enjoy yourself.
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Thanks Heather! I’m ready to pack my bags, grab the kids & head to Chicago. Sounds like a perfect getaway! Sounds like there is so much to do, see & eat – my kind of city!

xoxo, K

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06.18.2009 | San Diego Getaway, with Kids

Meet Tonya a self-described “champagne sipping, chocolate eating, camera carrying, crafty, shopaholic mummy to twin toddlers and a home schooled teenager. I’m also an Aussie, living in California, and a military wife.” In addition to all that, she somehow finds time to write, not just one, but three blogs: A Day in My Life, Currently Crafting and Munchkins & Mayhem. Lucky for us she lives just to the south of us, which makes her the perfect person to help you & I plan the perfect San Diego getaway, whether it’s a weekend full of fun, or just for the day…

Hello to all of the fabulous readers of Just Spotted. My name is Tonya & I’m here to take you on a tour of San Diego. I have a teenager & twin toddlers so getting them out exploring our area is very important to me. We love to discover new places & see all that San Diego has to offer. Here are my top 20 destinations for family friendly activities this summer.”

1. Balboa Park – You will need a few days here. Home to 15 museums, beautiful gardens, a playground for the little ones, the amazing Spreckels Organ Pavilion (which puts on FREE concerts over the summer), a Spanish Village, puppet shows, The Old Globe Theatre, restaurants, the famous San Diego Zoo and so much more.

2. Seaport Village – is one of my favorite places in San Diego. You will find FREE daily entertainment including bands, singers, magicians, palm readers and various other buskers and sideshows. Enjoy lunch in one of the many restaurants or take a picnic to enjoy in the grassy area overlooking the bay. From flying kites, to horse and carriage rides and the carousel, there is so much to see and do. Take a stroll along the boardwalk that runs alongside the San Diego Bay and enjoy the view of the boats, the Coronado Bridge and the little duck pond.
3. San Diego Zoo – The newly launched Elephant Odyssey at the San Diego Zoo, makes this a must-see destination. The zoo after dark is truly an experience, when you are surrounded by the noises of the night. You will also find summer camps for the little ones and family safari sleepovers over the summer period.
4. Wild Animal Park – There is just so much to do at the Wild Animal Park it is almost impossible to see it all in a day. With summer evenings in the park holding special events, Dino Mountain back on display over the summer and the regular park activities such as safari’s, tours, sleepovers and exploring the numerous exhibits the kids are sure to sleep well in the evenings.
5. Sea World – Summer nights have begun with the special night-time shows and fireworks. You can start your day off with Breakfast with Elmo, enjoy the various shows, rides and exhibits throughout the day including the Sesame Street Bay of Play and then stay on throughout the evening to dine with Shamu and experience the night-time shows and fireworks. They currently have a special on tickets – adults at kids prices and a 2nd visit FREE.
6. La Jolla Cove – With restaurants, shopping, galleries, the Museum of Contemporary Art, viewing seals at the Children’s Pool, the Sunday farmer’s market, playing on the beach and snorkeling or kayaking around the Cove, La Jolla is a fabulous destination for all ages.
7. Legoland – There are over 50 rides, shows and attractions at Legoland and it is great day out for all ages. You’ll find Bob the Builder in 4D, a mini golf course, water parks, lego stations, X-Box gamespace, Volvo driving school, mini-land, a factory tour and lego galore. Don’t forget to bring your swim gear, you will need it. Oh and be sure to try the apple fries, they are delicious.
8. Sea Life Aquarium – This aquarium is a combination of lego and real-life sea creatures. It is directly next door to Legoland and if you go on the same day, you won’t have to pay for another day of parking, however, you may want to leave this for another day to truly experience it, after-all the kids are going to be exhausted after a full day at Legoland. There are discovery zones, touch stations and a brand new Sharks Revealed interactive exhibit as well as aquariums and plenty for the little ones to do.
9. Old Town – Step back in time to the birthplace of California. Between Presidio Park, Heritage Park, Old town San Diego Historic Park, The Old Town Theatre, Saturday markets, over 100 stores, 24 full service restaurants, galleries and hotels, you’ll be sure to experience the history of San Diego. A few of the things to see are the first one room schoolhouse, the reportedly haunted Whaley House, an 1850 Catholic Cemetery and living history demonstrations.
10. Coronado Concerts in the Park – From May 24th until September 13th Coronado offer FREE concerts in the park every Sunday evening. This is one of our favorite weekend activities. Pack up a picnic and head down to Spreckels Park for an evening of music and fun for the children with a large, newly renovated playground. I advise getting there at 5:30pm to get a great spot on the lawn. Coronado is a great place to stay with beautiful beaches and the legendary Hotel Del .
11. Mission Bay, Mission Beach & Belmont Park – With boardwalks alongside the sand, relaxing on the beach, surfing, Crystal Pier, Fiesta Island, the Belmont Park theme park, restaurants, and playgrounds and this is a great summer destination. We recently spent an entire day walking from Pacific Beach along the boardwalk and around to Fanuel Park stopping at Belmont Park, beachside cafe’s, to play in the sand and enjoy an ice-cream. It was one of the best days we’ve had as a family. There are vacation rentals right on Crystal Pier, Hotels along the boardwalks where guests will take chairs out onto the sand to watch the sun go down and locations for bonfires, fly kites and to water ski.
12. Maritime Museum – A collection of historic ships are open daily for public tours. There are various packages available including family sleepovers on board, cruises out on the bay, sunset sails, and Movies Before The Mast Film Festival about the Star of India.
13. Viejas - Viejas is so much more than just a Casino and Outlet Mall. It also offers Concerts in the Park from April – October and a splash zone for the kids. The Power of Nightfare will be showing Thursday – Sunday until 7th September. This is a Native American folklore show featuring magic, special effects, water fountains, lasers and pyrotechnics. Also Thursday nights in June, July and August feature a FREE movie in the park.
14. Downtown San Diego – is a hub of great things to see and do. There is the infamous Petco Park, the Gaslamp district, Little Italy, Horton Plaza for shopping, great restaurants and The New Children’s Museum.
15. Chula Vista Nature Center – If you want to learn more about the birds, animals, plants and sea life native to San Diego, then this is the perfect place. The nature center is located on Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge right on San Diego Bay. At the Nature Center you can explore an aquarium, outdoor nature park and take either a guided tour or stroll at your own pace around the nature trails.
16. Santee Lakes – This is a beautiful area if you are wanting to just relax with your family. There is camping, fishing, a spray pad for the little ones, boating, movies by the lake over the summer, paddle boats, playgrounds, walking paths, bird watching and picnic areas.
17. Birch Aquarium – Experience the wonders of the ocean with hands-on exhibits, feedings, the aquarium nursery, family programs and tidepool displays. There are over 60 habitats. You can also do off-site activities such as grunion runs, snorkel with sharks, moonlight pier walks and many other things. Check out their Calendar for a full list of activities.
18. Quail Botanical Gardens – Only 20 minutes north of San Diego, the Quail Botanical Gardens is over 35 acres of gardens, rainforest and exhibits. They offer several different events over the summer including insect and fairy festivals, and strings in the garden.
19. Kit Carson Park – Located in Escondido it offers hiking trails, playgrounds, a sports complex, picnic areas, ponds and a 5-acre arboretum including the amazing Queen Califia’s Magical Circle Sculpture Garden. It is also only a few miles away from the Wild Animal Park and North County Fair mall.
20. Mission Trails Regional Park – There are nearly 5,800 acres of natural and developed areas that encompass Mission Trails Regional Park. You will find 40 miles of trails, Lake Murray, camping, a state-of-the-art visitor center including a 94 seat theatre (with 4 shows running daily), picnic facilities, guided nature walks and this summer will be the first time they offer week-long educational programs for children aged 6-10.
BONUS: I know I said I’d only add my top 20 destinations, but I almost forgot that the San Diego County Fair will be operating from June 12th until July 5th. The fairgrounds are located in Del Mar, home to beautiful beaches, fabulous restaurants and boutique shopping.
So, if you are looking for a fun destination to take the kids this summer, come down south. San Diego has so much to offer whether you are here for the day or an extended vacation, you won’t be disappointed. You can find out more about visiting San Diego especially about the parks, beaches and hotels from the San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau.

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Thanks Tonya! I for one, can’t wait to explore San Diego this summer. It will definitely make the perfect “stay-cation”. To get to know Tonya better visit her at any of her three blogs: A Day in My Life, Currently Crafting and Munchkins & Mayhem.

xoxo, K

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06.11.2009 | Legoland for FREE.


Here’s a little tip I picked up last week… during the last hour of operation at Legoland, you can actually get in FREE! For example, the day we went to Legoland, the park was open until 5pm. So, starting at 3:45 you can park for FREE. Then, all you have to do, is head on over to the gates & once the clock strikes 4pm, watch as they open the floodgates & let you waltz right in, at absolutely no cost to you! That’s right, you can take the entire family to Legoland for FREE! That’s quite a deal, even if it is only for an hour.

xoxo, K

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03.31.2009 | How to get on American Idol

or how to get tickets to American idol and have your face seen on T.V. K and C were able to go to American Idol last week and it was a great Mom’s night out. Kelly was actually seen on T.V. for a few brief seconds and you could see my side profile for a nano-second.

Here are my tips:

1) Get on the waiting list for tickets because it takes about a year to get them
2) Dress hip. If you are a Mom and thirty I recommend hot jeans, a trendy accessory, and a cute dark top.
3) Leave signs at home if you want to be seated near the front
4) Make an obnoxious signs if you want to have a conversation with the stage manager and not get on T.V.
5) Bring extra money for snacks for waiting in line

Other than that my advice is just enjoy yourself and take advantage of living so close to L.A. It really was a memorable night. I loved being able to see the stage, judges, and hearing Joss Stone and Stevie Wonder live. The best part was that it was all free, you can’t beat that.

xoxo, C

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08.01.2008 | Santa Barbara with Kids

Santa Barbara is my favorite escape in California, but now that I have two kids I have changed my agenda for our next visit.

The zoo is small when compared to others, but there are very few zoos that have such a breathtaking view of the ocean.

2) Carlitos or Palazzio

Both of these restaurant meet my requirement of having delicious food with generous portions, crayons for kids to color on the table and are right downtown on State St.

3) Ty Warner Sea Center

The sea center strive to teach chidren about the natural wonders of the sea via interactive exhibits like live tidepool encounters and hands-on experiments.

xoxo, C

image via flickr

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