ML Interest Tag: breakfast-burritos

Experience the Wild West in Cheyenne

by Annette Benedetti

Every kid wants to know what the Wild West was really like. You can let yours experience it for themselves on your next family vacation. Cheyenne is filled with opportunities to transport your crew back in time to the days when cowboys and girls frolicked on the wide-open frontier. From feeding bison, to horseback adventures and gunslinger shows, a trip to Cheyenne is guaranteed to ignite your young buckaroos’ imaginations and have them shouting, “Yee Haw!”, all the way home. Read on for our guide to Wyoming’s capital city Y’all.

STAY

Finding the perfect outpost for your Cheyenne adventures is key to and epic western experience. There is no better place for your posse than Little America. This resort features a golf course, pool and cozy suites that make you feel at home.

Set down your lasso and pick up your putter for a round of nine holes on Little America’s executive golf course. Surrounded by 80-acres of landscaped terrain, you get your game on while taking in the local wildlife. When you are done, head to the clubhouse and take a break.

While you’ll surely want to explore Cheyenne’s food scene, Little America has several restaurant options on site. Hathaway’s Restaurant is considered one of Cheyenne’s premier restaurants and serves up a popular lunch buffet, dinner and Sunday Brunch with an elegant approach to classic western comfort foods. Parents can relax in Hathaway’s lounge and enjoy an evening cocktail. For a quick bite and coffee, Carol’s Cafe serves up pastries and 75 cent ice cream cones.

When you aren’t golfing, swimming or dining, you can relax in your beautifully appointed suite. The rooms at Little America are known for being extremely spacious and extra comfortable. There’s more than enough room for the whole family to get comfortable. Located on a campus-like setting, your family isn’t likely to experience cabin fever, even during an extended stay.

PLAY

Cowboy & Cowgirl Up!
The first thing you need to do when you hit Cheyenne is head to the iconic The Wrangler store. It’s been around since 1982 selling ranch and western wear. Here you’ll not only find clothing you’ll love, but you can pick your own cowboy or cowgirl hat from their skylit hat room with its nearly 500 hats! Once you know which one you want, you can have it shaped and fit to your head. Now you are truly ready for adventure.

Go to the Ranch
There are so many adventures to be had in Cheyenne, it’s challenging to know where to start. We suggest kicking off your frontier adventure with a trip to Terry Bison Ranch. The Ranch offers families a variety of unforgettable adventures. We suggest hopping on their train for a Bison Train Tour that takes you around the ranch. Your trip includes a chance to see ostriches, camels, and horses. The highlight is a chance to hand-feed bison! It’s likely the closest you’ll ever get to these amazing beasts.

When you are done with the tour, go for a a horseback or pony ride. Or, hop on an ATV for a motorized adventure. The ranch also has a fishing post and a shop with memorabilia that you can purchase. Then grab a bite at the Tombstone cafe.

Outdoor Adventures.
There are so many places to explore in Cheyenne. Scenic hikes are abundant. Nearby, Gowdy State Park has miles and miles of beautiful trail and three reservoirs that are perfect for fishing and boating. The Vedauwoo Recreation Area  is home to trails that wander through towering rock formations that draw climbers and campers from around the nation. So strap on your hiking boots or grab your mountain bikes and get ready for incredible outdoor adventures.

While you are exploring the outdoors, don’t forget to checkout some of the area’s coolest sites, like the Lincoln Highway Monument (a giant head of Lincoln) which marks what was once the highest point of the Lincoln Highway. And did you know that there is a pyramid in Wyoming? Only a short distance away, you can see the Ames Brothers Pyramid which stands on a treeless plateau as a reminder of the Ames Brothers’ sordid tale as both a Union Pacific’s president and a corrupt congressman. It’s an exciting story and awesome site.

Catch a Show
From gunslingers to melodramas, there’s no shortage of family-friendly entertainment. But we suggest getting your first dose of fun on the local Trolley Tour where you can learn all about the history of Cheyenne. The wild west tours are sure to hold even your youngest family members’ attention. With guides who know how to tell a tale they way they did sitting around a campfire after a long day on the frontier.

It wouldn’t be the Wild West without a gunslinger shoot out! And you can see one every day in downtown Cheyenne. Your hole family will be on the edge of their seats as they watch the small battles go down, but the best part of the whole event is the very serious lesson on gun safety they outlaws and lawmen give prior to each show. They speak specifically to the kiddos in the audience.

For a whole lot of family fun, head to the Historic Atlas Theater where you can catch a variety of shows year-round. From melodramas to classics like Beauty & the Beast. There’s something to see year-round.

EAT
Get ready to fill your bellies with some serious western fare while you’re in Cheyenne because the eatin’s good! Ok, so not all of the food is western focused, but all of the eateries are amazing. We suggest starting your day at the beloved Tortilla Factory with a filling breakfast burrito made with hand-made tortillas. When lunch rolls around, you want to head over to the Bunkhouse where you can feast on swinging sirloins (RMO), sandwiches, 1855 burgers! The menu items are traditional and taste like home-cookin.

For an upscale meal, you’ll want to heat to the Metropolitan where you can order from menu items like Ahi Sashimi, the Met Filet, and a stuffed portabella mushroom burger. Another incredible dinner options is the Rib & Chop House where you can dine on fried green tomatoes, grilled oysters, and your kids will love the chicken and pasta dishes. If you find you need a little break from traditional menu items, head to Napoli’s Italian restaurant where you will find lots of pasta dishes and home-made bread! You will not be disappointed!

The wild west was a time of great adventure on the wide-open frontier. There’s no better way to teach your young’uns about the history of America, and what it was really like as our great country was coming to be what it is today, than by taking them to where the old lifestyle and it’s traditions are being preserved and remembered daily. A vacation to Cheyenne is sure to leave its impression on your whole family, while giving you a family adventure of a lifetime.

—Annette Benedetti

Special thanks to Visit Cheyenne for assistance with accommodations and entertainment. All opinions here expressed are the writer’s own. 

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Descanso Gardens: A Slice of Paradise for Kids in LA

by Andie Huber

Looking for an escape from the city without packing your bags? Then head to Descanso Gardens, the 150-acre botanical garden in La Cañada Flintridge that offers much-needed respite from city life no matter what time of year you go. Descanso means “place of rest” in Spanish after all. Scroll below for all the must-sees and must-dos and don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back month after month to this off-the-radar gem. It’s a pretty magical place for both parents and kids alike.

photo: Amanda S. via Yelp

When to Go

Spring: Mar.-May is when everything is blooming in the garden so if you have your heart set on seeing flowers upon flowers upon flowers, this is the time to go. Of course this is when the garden is busiest so if you want to see more of the plants and less of the people, head here during the week, first thing in the morning on the weekends or about an hour to an hour and a half before closing for what Jennifer Errico, Public Relations and Marketing Director of Descanso Gardens dubs, “The Golden Hour.” She told us that this when the garden tends to clear out and, at times, is at it’s prettiest.

Summer: Check out the Rose Garden where those fancy blooms are on full display. And according to Errico, this part of the garden gets better and better every year.

Fall: The leaves usually make their big changes in Nov. but good to keep an eye out on the website or call ahead of time if you want to really capture autumn at its peak.

Winter: Enchanted: Forest of Light is the big draw in Dec.-early Jan. and for many late-rsvp’ers, they find they can’t get tickets to this stunning light display.

Insider Tip: Tickets for Enchanted: Forest of Light typically go on sale Oct. 1 for members, and then Oct. 15th for non-members. FYI: The earliest time slot you can get, the less crowded it will be. And if you can swing a mid-week visit, you’ll have more time-slots to choose from as opposed to picking a more popular (i.e. more crowded) weekend timed entry.

photo: Karol F. via Yelp

Where to Go in the Garden: The garden is too big to cover in one day but here are some highlights for your first couple of trips whether you have little kids or big ones.

Little Kids: Grab the “Children’s Walk” brochure from the visitor’s center. It’s a habitat walk/scavenger hunt for kids to look for and see what lives in the garden. And since it’s less than a mile and you can go at your own pace. Its a low commitment activity with just enough draw and curiosity to drive them to the next location.

After the hunt, it’s probably time to grab a snack. Picnics are not allowed on the property (aside from an occasion or two detailed in this article) so head to the main lawn if you need a rest and an energy boost. There’s a small outdoor amphitheater where kids can stage an impromptu show while the grownups sit back and relax.

If your little ones are ready for more adventure, head to the back of the rose garden, behind the bathrooms where you’ll find a little children’s maze that is short and lovely. Ideal for age six and under, here you can let your kids run free and explore without worrying about them getting lost or on any sort of main road (Descanso Gardens is entirely fenced in).

Don’t forget to check out the lake behind the rose garden. That’s where most of the wildlife resides and is a great spot for bird observation and a chat with the docent who is ready to offer knowledge and answer questions. Got a little tired? Take a seat in one of the Adirondack chairs. Once you’ve rested, take the short path around the lake, down the boardwalk and through the Oak Woodlands.

Ride the Enchanting Train: Full Steam Ahead! Families can board an iconic, 1/8th replica of a diesel train for a delightful journey into nature via the seven-minute train ride on the Enchanted Railroad at Descanso Gardens. Parents and tykes alike will appreciate the birds-eye view into the scenic garden surroundings. The Enchanted Railroad is open for train rides four days a week: Tue. & Fri. from 10 a.m. to noon and Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cost: $3 per rider, $25 for a book of 10 tickets

Insider Tip: If you plan on riding the rain, buy tickets at the visitor’s center before heading into the park. You can’t buy tickets at the train.

Older Kids: With their longer legs and hopefully more stamina than the toddler set, make your way to the Sturt Haaga Gallery and the Boddy House for a little exposure to rotating art and culture exhibitions in addition to the beautiful grounds along the way. Currently, the Boddy House is exhibiting a show called Japanese Garden and will run through 2019.

Insider Tip: Behind this gallery is Hope’s Garden, where, if you go up some stairs, you’ll find a secret garden with amazing views. Afterward, take the stairs down to the Camilia Forest and you’ll find yourself immersed in the garden, convinced you aren’t less than 15 miles from DTLA.

Another great spot for bigger kids? The Redwood Rest (the most northern part of the property) that features a pergola and a quiet place to sit (a nice reward for walking all the way here). It feels like you’ve found someplace special and there are trails that go off in various directions that make you feel like you can choose your adventure and get lost (in a good way) but you really can’t get lost. Like Errico says, you can “Let them be free in a place that feels wild and special but totally safe. Just let them know (if you do let them wander on their own, when it doubt, head downhill where you’ll find yourself at the beginning of the gardens).

Insider Tip: Check with the visitor’s center to make sure the Sturt Haaga Gallery and the Boddy House are open during your visit before heading there.

Where to Eat

If you come on the weekend and want to make sure everyone is fed, full and happy before exploring the garden, make a reservation at Maple restuarant. The space was recently renovated and now exudes a bright, modern feel with a nod towards its craftsman roots. Whether you dine indoors or out, there is not a bad seat in the house.

The menu changes seasonally, thanks to Chef Philip Mack, who successfully combines American-inspired cuisine and fresh produce with a south of the border twist. The result? A memorable family brunch that will even have the kids asking when you can go back.

The kid’s choices range from waffles and pancakes to cheeseburgers while the adult menu has hard to choose toasts (the avocado toast came with edible flowers!), a just-the-right-amount of spicy breakfast burrito plus their signature fried chicken and beignets. There’s so much variety on the menu that a repeat visit will yield a completely new and memorable experience.

Insider Tip: Order a side of beignets for the table if you don’t order the fried chicken so everyone can indulge a little bit in the southern fried donut.

Hours: 9 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Online: mapleatdescanso.com

If you are looking for more cafe style or grab-and-go options, Cafe Descanso (located next door to Maple) is a good bet.

photo: Grace K. via Yelp

Events to Watch For in 2019: 

In addition to weekly programming like weekend walks, story time, craft workshops and more, there are some extra special events to look forward to in 2019.

Mar.-Apr.: Drop-in art making, Spring bloom walks begin.

Apr.-May: Boddy House/Arts Education: Showcase House of Design. Additionally, Maple, will be open during these showcase times, offering more reasons to come back and eat.

Apr. 27: The City Nature Challenge BioBlitz is a community event that focuses on identifying wildlife species in a specific place in a short amount of time. Help contribute to the worldwide 2019 City Nature Challenge from 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. and upload your photos to iNaturalist to add your discoveries to a growing map of nature in Los Angeles.

Spring-Summer: New scavenger hunts will be starting, stop by the visitor’s center for more details.

Summer: Evening Concert Series: The garden closes at 5 but during the summer, it reopens at 5:30 (sometimes for an additional fee) for their summer concert series. Tues. are world music nights, expect everything from Hawaiian dancers to Taiko drums, on Wed. you’ll hear summer songs by a DJ in the garden (this along with world music nights are probably the most kid-friendly), and Thurs. is jazz night. You can buy food and drink and put a blanket down and picnic—one of the only times you can do so in the garden.

Good to Know: Descanso Gardens participates in Museums Free For All where on a designated day, visitors can access the gardens for free (does not apply to special exhibits). And if you become a member of Descanso Gardens you are entitled to all kinds of perks, like discounts, early Enchanted ticket sales and special member-only events. You can save a lot of money. Or ask for a membership as a Christmas, Hanukkah or birthday gift! You’ll certainly get a year’s worth experiences that they whole family will be able to enjoy.

My kid’s favorite part of the garden? The teahouse in the Japanese Garden where they get to offer a pretend tea service to unsuspecting strangers. See—there really is something for everyone in this magical place.

Descanso Gardens is open daily (closed on Christmas) and has plenty of free parking in front.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Last entry is 4:30 pm).
Cost: Adults $9; seniors and students $6; children ages 5-12 $4; under 4 are free

1418 Descanso Dr.
La Cañada Flintridge
818-949-4200
Online: descansogardens.org

All photos by Andie Huber unless stated otherwise.

To see what Red Tricycle Editors are up to this weekend, follow us on Instagram!

—Andie Huber

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Blast Off at the California Science Center’s New Exhibit

by rtelenawf

Got a little Major Tom who can’t hear enough about space travel and Mars visits? Run (or float in your portable zero gravity chamber) to the new in-depth look at what it’s really like to be among the stars. The California Science Center has just opened the brand new Journey To Space Exhibition and 3D film, so your mini moon-walker can get up close and personal with the Final Frontier.

photo: The California Science Center

The Atmosphere
The entire exhibit mimics outer space, with a very dark interior lit by bright star-like lights above. It’s bright enough to see & enjoy everything, but definitely gives off the vibe that you’re walking in the night-time sky. Kids will love all there is to see—and touch! Little explorers get a hands-on, climb-aboard experience of what it’s like to live and work in space. The exhibition examines the extraordinary environment of space, including the very real dangers astronauts face during their mission above Earth. Kids will learn about the vacuum of space, radiation, meteoroids, and temperature extremes, while getting a look at all the ways that humans take on the challenge of exploring such an inhospitable location. Read on for our list of can’t miss activities to plan your visit around.

photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan

A Rocket Launcher
Kids can spend all day here; you may have to drag them away! They get a chance to launch their very own rocket, complete with a voice giving them the count down. Don’t be surprised if you hear echoes of “Three, Two, One, BLAST OFF!” from the backseat while you drive home.

photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan

The Destiny Lab
This lab looks like it came straight out of a sci-fi movie set. Kids of all ages (even strollers are allowed) can enter a full-scale replica of the Destiny Lab, the primary research facility for the U.S. International Space Station. You’ll experience the sights, sounds, and smells on board an orbiting lab: yep, the entire lab rotates around you, so although you’re standing still, it gives you the illusion of spinning. It can cause dizziness and/or nausea for some (so skip the carne asada breakfast burrito beforehand), but that’s helped by closing your eyes and holding on to the railing. While you spin, you get a virtual tour from astronauts who have worked there. Thankfully, you’ll only be topsy-turvy for four minutes, and your kids will get a kick out of seeing all the futuristic things inside the lab (Robo-nauts!).

photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan

A Play Space Station
Even kids who aren’t planning to go all Matt Damon and be the next Martian will go wild for a miniature version of a real space station. It’s like a dollhouse, except that it’s a replica of where astronauts live and work in space. Your kids get to play with the soft astronaut dolls (girls will love the female astronauts, who each have ponytails), and move them around the space station areas. There are even tiny space helmets to complete the look. Your tyke might have their mini astronaut tend to the garden lab to grow plants, or work on an injured astronaut in the medic station. There are domino-style pieces to represent medicine, tools, microscopes and more. Kids get really into as they take turns commanding the ship or warding off a pretend alien attack. Step back and enjoy watching as groups of kids instantly form a space team and play together.

photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan

In addition to all the fun hands-on activities, there are also several huge screens around the exhibit, showing incredible footage, from an aerial view of the Northern lights from Wisconsin to the East Coast, to astronauts doing backwards somersaults as they float in mid-air. Kids will also enjoy seeing Neil Armstrong’s gloves, a real space helmet, and an animated video on why astronauts are weightless in space.

photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan

The Journey to Space 3D Film
It’s a short walk from the exhibit to the IMAX theater across the outside courtyard, where you and your little ones will enjoy the mighty experience of IMAX in 3D. Grab a popcorn and a slushie (or other snacks) at the concession, and get your 3D glasses (kid sizes available—and are super cute), and settle into the comfy chairs. The screen takes over the entire wall, so this experience may be a bit intense for tiny tots. The film is narrated by Patrick Stewart (bonus for moms with a crush on Captain Picard), and includes extensive interviews with NASA astronauts.

What’s great about the film (and the exhibit, too) is how many female astronauts are represented, so both little girls and boys will be equally inspired. Through visually stunning imagery, the film showcases the exciting plans NASA has, such as a human mission to Mars, which is in the planning stages. Kids will especially love seeing astronauts train 60 feet underwater (mini subs!), as well as a 45 foot tall inflatable space habitat (that may remind kids of a blown-up Baymax). The movie is probably best for kids age 5 & up, and is engaging enough to entertain while educating your wee ones on all that NASA is capable of. With a run-time of 45 minutes, it’s a nice break off from being on your feet, and a good length to make sure little legs don’t get restless.

Wanna make a whole day of it?
The California Science Center is big, with plenty to see. Aside from special exhibits like this, it’s completely free to get in. Your kids will have plenty to see and do, so you can easily spend the entire day there. Oh, and don’t worry about lugging snacks from home—there’s a coffee bar to keep you going, and the Trimana Grill & Market will take care of even the hungriest of space explorers. Newly renovated and located inside the building, you’ll find yummy selections for picky and healthy eaters (from tossed salads, soups and healthy wraps to French fries, chicken tenders and hot dogs). With all the sights and interactive adventures, a day spent here is sure to be out of this world.

Liftoff at the California Science Center is October 29th, 2015.  The exhibit runs through May 8th, 2016.  The exhibit is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and entrance is $9.75 for adults and $6.25 for kids.  You can get a combo ticket for the exhibit plus the 3D IMAX film for $16.75 for adults and $13.50 for kids. You can buy tickets online to reserve an entry date & time.

Parking is available in the lot for $10 a day.

The California Science Center
700 Exposition Park Dr.
Exposition Park
Online: californiasciencecenter.org

—Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan

Let us know how you enjoy your visit to the Journey to Space Exhibit and 3D Film! What was your small space explorer’s favorite thing to see?

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Surfs Up! How to Make the Most of Your Day at Pacific Beach

by Lenya McGrath

Welcome to Pacific Beach, a seaside mecca of glistening beaches, boardwalks and a lively atmosphere. While you may think of P.B. (as the locals call it) as a town full of surfers, college kids and bars, don’t count P.B. out of your spots to visit. Dig a little deeper and you’ll find a family-friendly hub with great eats, pristine waterways and parks galore to explore.

Photo Credit: Lenya McGrath

Get Out And About
There are lots of great spots in play, explore, hike and go for a walk along the beach. Here are a few of our favorites.

North Pacific Beach
Set down your towels at North Pacific Beach, the stretch of shore between Tourmaline and Crystal Pier. Here you’ll find plenty of families enjoying this quieter stretch of beach. There are lifeguard supervised swimming areas plus restrooms and showers at the ends of Law and Diamond Streets.

Crystal Pier
Head to the start of Garnet Street and you’ll find Crystal Pier. Built in 1927, this historic pier not only stretches out over the ocean but is home to a whole bunch holiday cottages sitting right on the pier. Yes that’s right — on the pier! It is the perfect spot to take in a sunset or a leisurely walk to count the surfers dotted in the water underneath you.

Kate O Sessions Park
Sitting proudly on the hills of north P.B. is Kate O Sessions Park, a 79-acre green space that is used by locals and visitors alike. Here you’ll find some of the best views in all of San Diego with the vistas stretching to Downtown, Coronado and even the hills of Tijuana, Mexico on a clear day. There is a well equipped playground, bbq pits, picnic tables, restrooms and lots of park land for kicking the ball around or flying a kite.

Photo credit: Jessie A. via Yelp

The Boardwalk
It wouldn’t be a beach without a boardwalk and P.B. holds a perfect 3.2-mile stretch of boardwalk starting from Law Street all the way down to Mission Bay. Take a stroll and you’ll be in for lots of people watching, dog spotting and picturesque views. It can get busy particularly from Crystal Pier down to Mission Bay, so we suggest doing what the locals do and cruising north from Crystal Pier up towards Law Street.

Fanuel Park
Take a left on Grand when you hit Fanuel Street and you’ll end up at Fanuel Park, a relaxed bayside park perfect for a family picnic. The kids can let off steam at the play ground that boasts some of the best views in the hood. There are plenty of skiff boats sitting on the shoreline to explore or toss around a frisbee in the park. There are restrooms and a small amount of free parking available on site.

Photo Credit: Kono’s Cafe Facebook page

Delicious Food To Eat
What’s a fun afternoon out without a little something to eat?

Kono’s
This is the must-do breakfast spot in Pacific Beach. Nestled right on the boardwalk at Garnet Street, this cafe gets busy so we’d recommend beating the crowds and arriving early (which shouldn’t be too much of a problem if you have early risers!). Snag a table out on the deck or skip the lines and grab your meal to go for a early morning beach picnic with the kids. Locals swear by the breakfast burrito and the big breakfast #1. It’s good to note that servings are big so you can order on the light side and it’s cash only at Kono’s.

704 Garnet Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92109
Online: konoscafe.com

Fish Shop
Arguably some of the best fish tacos around belong to the P.B. institution Fish Shop. Try their world famous T.K.O taco, a grilled mahi-mahi marinated in special seasoning topped with a house-made tropical mango salsa. Your little ones will love the kids menu complete with coloring paper and crayons, while parents love the 50+ microbrewery beers available.  Avoid the lines and get here early.

1775 Garnet Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92109
Online: thefishshoppb.com

Photo credit: Leah Singer

Baked Bear
If you are after a great way to treat the family, check out Baked Bear, Pacific Beaches very own ice cream sandwich shop.  Build your own treat by choosing your own cookies and ice cream combo or go for something more adventurous and try a brownie or donut ice cream sandwich! Once you’re finished the boardwalk, beach and pier are only a hop skip and a jump away.

4516 Mission Blvd.
San Diego, Ca 92109
Online: thebakedbear.com

Pure Cupcakes
Hidden away next to the Von’s shopping centre on Garnet, you’ll find Pure Cupcakes. A melt-in-your-mouth, kids jumping up and down, cakes as far as the eye can see treasure trove. Their menu is full of sweet cupcake treats like red velvet, white chocolate and strawberry, salted caramel, as well as the homage to Pacific Beach: the PB Bliss. There are seats for your tribe to sit down and eat in the shop or pick up some baked goods to go with their curb-side service (just call ahead to arrange).

1772 Garnet Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92109
Online: purecupcakes.com

Photo Credit: San Diego Blog

Getting Around
Parking can be notoriously tight around Pacific Beach, particularly in busy spots like the beach or the bar and restaurant hubs in Garnet and Grand Streets. There are paid lots scattered around these areas, or pick a side street off Garnet and Grand for free on street parking.

Have you been to Pacific Beach? What’s your favorite family-friendly spot?

— Lenya McGrath

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10 Tricks to Surviving LA Freeways With Kids

by Shannon Guyton

You thought you had road rage issues from commuting in LA before kids, but nothing compares with being a parent in traffic with kids past their nap time as the squabbles begin in the back seat. Instead of using the “don’t make me pull this car over” threat (empty, because you can’t even pull over on the 10 at rush hour), here are tips from savvy LA parents that will make your drive a little less stressful and a lot more fun.

photo credit: Steve Damron via Creative Commons

  1. Mixmaster Mom: Summon your inner DJ and create a playlist for your drive. Put on the kids’ favorite tunes (yes, even ones you hate) and reserve the playlist for times just like this. Or, if it’s nap time, cue the lullaby playlist. Older kids might enjoy an LA specific theme to make them appreciate their hometown with tunes like Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty, California Dreamin’ by The Mamas and the Papas, Walking in LA by Missing Persons, I Love LA by Randy Newman or La Cienega Just Smiled by Ryan Adams.
  1. Landmark Love: Make up games to play about the landmarks you pass on a regular trek. Kids don’t know “we’ll be there in thirty minutes” but they know they’re halfway home when they see the spaceship crashing into Fry’s Electronics on the 5 at Hollywood Way. Other fun landmarks to acknowledge: shout out the moment you smell the yeasty fragrance of the Budweiser factory at the 405/Roscoe Blvd. exit, guess how many planes you will see flying over the freeway as you crawl past LAX on the 405 or 105. If you drive by the skyscrapers on the 101 or 110, see how many people you can see in the buildings and guess what kind of work they do, and try to spot police cars doing training at their track west of the 5 near the 405/5 split.

photo credit: Jeff Turner via Creative Commons

  1. I Spy: Usually you prefer that your kids don’t gawk at strangers, but there is no better people watching than on L.A. freeways—in particular the 10 when every car becomes a fish bowl during rush hour traffic. I Spy the Shaving Man Rapping to Will Smith. I Spy the Lady in Curlers Applying Mascara While Eating a Breakfast Burrito. I Spy a Lady That Looks Just Like Taylor Swift; wait is that really Taylor Swift? L.A. freeways are a place to see and be seen.

photo credit: Mike via Creative Commons

  1. Catch Carpool Crime: Deputize the kids!  Put them on the lookout for anyone breaking the 2 or more person in the carpool lane law. There are over 531 miles of car pool lanes on freeways all over Los Angeles, so plenty of opportunity to catch the perpetrators.
  1. Follow the Map: Kids have loved maps since their Dora days. If you still have your old Thomas Guide, pull that out, or load Google Maps or Waze on your phone. Kids love to zoom in and follow where they are going. Have them come up with their traffic reporter radio names and be your personal navigator/traffic reporter.  They’ll love figuring out Sigalert as much as you’ll love being forewarned about an upcoming accident.
  1. Car Treasure: Have a stash of just-for-the-car items for kids to play with or read while you’re driving. You could even create suspense and anticipation by waiting until a particular exit, say Wilshire, before you break out the stash. Some ideas to include: activity books, board books, maze balls, special stuffed animal, teething ring, action figures. Avoid anything that’s too hard or heavy that if you had to stop suddenly might fly through the car and injure someone.
  1. Spontaneous Story: You probably don’t feel like making up a story after a long day at work to keep kids entertained while you’re commuting, so don’t. Start with a sentence then pass it to the next person in the car to continue, the story, and so on. Even toddlers love to get in on this, and they always take a story in a new and unusual direction (usually involving dinosaurs). Use things you see along the way to help you tell it. Start a story about a man working out inside the 24 Hour Fitness wearing a purple hat you spied at the 405/101 interchange, for example.

photo credit: Robert Couse-Baker via Creative Commons

  1.  Latte Lane: The kids are finally asleep but you need coffee to stay awake for the rest of the journey. There are a few brilliantly placed coffee shops with drive-thru’s near freeway exits. Some Starbuck’s locations: Highland and Santa Monica near the 101, Riverside and Tujunga off the 170, San Fernando and Walnut (near Burbank Blvd) off the 5, Nordhoff and Sepulveda near the 405. Use the handy drive-thru store locator tool on Starbucks.com to find the location most convenient for your commute.

photo credit: Clintus via Ceative Commons

  1. Pass the Buck: Sometimes you just…can’t. So let someone else! Call up your best actor friend or the kids’ grandparents on FaceTime and ask them to help you get through that last half hour. They can chat, sing, and entertain your kids for a while. Then promise you’ll return the favor.
  1. Resort to the Classics: Channel your own family road trip games and enjoy a couple of rounds of ABCs of (insert theme), license plate state finding, word association (you say a word and the kids have to say another word that relates and starts with the last letter of the word you said) or truth or dare. Dare them to do something silly that they might be seen doing in the car, like pretending to pick their noses or yell “Hello Los Angeles, I love you!” out the window. We promise we’ll shout back.

What are your tips and tricks for dealing with our car culture city?  What makes terrible traffic better for your little ones?  We’d love to hear your ideas in the comment section!

—written by Shannon Guyton with special tips from fellow road warriors Ing Lee and Robin Barnett

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6 Farmers Markets to Visit This Winter

by Marianne Walters

Chestnuts and clementines and kale, oh my! There’s nothing quite like shrugging on your coat (or stepping into your rain boots) and heading outdoors to the winter markets for fresh veggies that will keep you healthy throughout the cold and flu season. The winter markets also offer up scavenger hunts and kids’ clubs to make shopping way more fun than the usual trip to the grocery store.

photo: Hollywood Farmers Market via Facebook

Hollywood Farmers Market

The Hollywood Farmers Market was started in 1997 by a group of community volunteers. At this true neighborhood market, folks can enjoy their favorite vendors year-round offering a wide variety of products including vegetables, fruit, herbs, honey, mushrooms, cheese, eggs, meat, poultry, seafood, cut flowers, plants, baked goods, and hot food. Stop by Nourishment to grab a breakfast burrito for your mini shoppers (and one for yourself).

Open: 1st and 3rd Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., December through March
NE Hancock between 44th and 45th (one block south of Sandy)
503-709-7403
Online: hollywoodfarmersmarket.org

Winter Market at PSU

Big news: Saturday Market at PSU has gone year-round! For the first time, the winter market will be open in January and February on one block, expanding back to two blocks for its regular season in March. Families can enjoy the usual wealth of local vendors, and if you plan on spending a long time shopping, keep the kiddos happy by downloading a market scavenger hunt from their website to take with you! Please note that the winter market at Shemanski Park will not be open this year.

Open: Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., January through February
1717 SW Park Ave. at Portland State University
503-241-0032
Online: portlandfarmersmarket.org

photo: Beaverton Farmers Market via Facebook

Beaverton Farmers Market

Washington County has just one winter farmers market, and is it ever a favorite! BFM is a magnet for westside families because of its stellar location in town. Park just once and you have access to the Beaverton City Library, the adjacent city park, and one of the largest farmers markets in the Portland area. Don’t forget to sign your littles up for the Market Sprouts Kids Club, where ages 4-12 can learn about eating healthfully and taking part in their local food system. You’ll have to wait until February for this winter market to open, but don’t worry– it’s well worth the wait and February will be here before you know it.

Open: 1st and 3rd Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., February through April
SW Hall Blvd. between SW 3rd St. and SW 5th St.
Beaverton
503-643-5345
Online: beavertonfarmersmarket.com

 

photo: Hillsdale Farmers’ Market via Twitter

Hillsdale Farmers’ Market

Location, location, location! You can’t go wrong taking the family to this market, situated on the parking lot of Rieke Elementary and Wilson High. Bring the whole clan, get your produce and other goods, then let the young ones blow off some steam on the playground, soccer field, or basketball court (or hey, join them and get your winter exercise). Families also love Hillsdale because of its close proximity to Hillsdale Shopping Center. Get your last few items at Food Front before heading home.

Open: Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., twice a month from December through April (see website for exact dates)
Wilson High/Rieke Elementary Parking Lot
SW Sunset Rd. & SW Capitol Hwy.
503-475-6555
Online: hillsdalefarmersmarket.com

photo: Lloyd Farmers Market

Lloyd Farmers Market

Convenience is key, and Lloyd has it! The only weekday farmers market in the Lloyd District, this one is conveniently located nearby the 7th Avenue MAX. The market is a pleasant retreat for Lloyd District employees, but families can benefit by popping over to do some shopping at the Lloyd Center mall before walking one block south for some fresh air, fresh produce, and fantastic hot food for lunch. All winter long you’ll find fruit, veggies, meat, and bread.

Open: Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., year-round
Oregon Square Courtyard
NE Holladay St. between NE 7th Ave. and NE 9th Ave.
503-709-7403
Online: lloydfarmersmarket.com

People’s Farmers Market
You don’t have to be a member to reap the benefits of this fabulous co-op. There’s no question that people love People’s, and on Wednesdays they open their doors and provide an outdoor market, year-round. Take your hungry young ones to see what’s out this week. And if you’re really feeling ambitious, check their website to see what’s fresh this week so you can do your meal planning ahead of time and come up with a seasonal dish that will have your family cheering, or at least trying something new.

Open: Wednesdays from 2-7 p.m.
3029 SE 21st Ave., one block north of Powell Blvd.
503-674-2642
Online: peoplescoop.com

Where does your family shop for the region’s best winter produce? Share with us in the Comments below!

– Marianne Walters

 

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My Mommy Bites' Family Favorites around Los Angeles

by Tuba Ugurulu

One of Los Angeles’ Top Mom Blogger Dorothea Coelho from My Mommy Bites shares words of wisdom with Los Angeles moms. From a favorite relaxing spots to places to eat with kids in tow she tells her family favorites in 5 quick questions!

1. What’s your favorite “escape hatch”—a way to put in some “me” time to recharge?

My favorite escape hatch is hiking in Runyon Canyon in the Hollywood Hills. The views are breathtaking and the people watching is classic LA. You can get a great workout, some fresh air, see the Capitol Records building and  the Pacific Ocean as well as ogle at small herds of unemployed actresses hiking in high heels and parachute pants.

2. What’s your favorite local vacation or day trips?

One of my favorite local vacation spots is Paradise Cove in Malibu. It’s a good drive up the PCH when we all need to unwind and see the ocean. Paradise Cove has it’s own beach and a restaurant but you can pack a lunch and hang out all day. Again, great people watching, always a Glee cast member there and yummy French Fries and grilled cheese sandwiches. Another place we like to go to visit the Goodyear Blimp launching pad in Carson. Not much there but an open field and one park bench but when the blimp takes off it is pure magic. And it’s near an IKEA if you need to stock up on weird Swedish knick-knacks and brightly colored dish ware that doesn’t make you weep when it shatters.

3. Where do you shop for your kids clothes?

I only shop for kids clothes at Target and H&M. The prices and the hip factor cannot be beat and who doesn’t love a uber-hipster kid in skinny jeans and an ironic t-shirt for under twenty bucks? I am truly my mother’s daughter when it comes to a bargain and value. I was also very lucky to inherit boxes and boxes of great hand-me-down clothes from a friend with great taste and a nutty, neatness factor. Because of her generosity and OCD I only needed to start shopping for my son when he turned three. Lucky me!!!

4. What are a few of your favorite parks & places to visit with kids and around town?

We LOVE going to Travel Town in Griffith Park to visit the old trains and ride the mini train as well. I have a son who  is train-obsessed and nothing satisfies his choo-choo itch more than a few hours there. And it’s free admission and is small and manageable. We also love The Peterson Automotive Museum, a treasure trove of the coolest, most famous cars in film and television. The Bat Mobile, Grease Lightning and The General Lee are all there for everyone’s nostalgic pleasure and yes, I leave there feeling relaxed yet as old as the sun. How is that possible?

5. Where do you like to catch a bite with the little one in tow?

Our absolutely favorite place to eat with Otto is a small, hole in the wall called Frank’s on Fairfax. They have the best breakfast burrito I have ever had and the owners love kids as much as a mall santa loves a cigarette break. The are the sweetest people and the best cooks. Also, we adore Sushi Time on Beverly Blvd. Unbelievable sushi and they are so lovely to our son and so welcoming. Did I mention the yellow tail???? Like butter… If it has to be a chain restaurant with thousands of tables and electronic table finders than Maggiano’s at The Grove. But that is only with a group of kid friends and an appetite for destruction.

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