So long, fidget spinners! Popits are the new rage in fidget toys and our kids cannot get enough of them. Pros: they are quiet and don’t cause a mess (we’re talking about you, slime). Cons: there are literally hundreds of these colorful toys and some of them are massive.
When the burger and chicken sandwich cravings hit, you’ll want this list at the ready. Go beyond the usual drive-through options and get your fast food cravings satisfied with sandwiches that are made to order and include toppings like bacon jam, Japanese sauces, queso and fresh California avocados. These spots cater to foodies and kids alike, and are perfect for that next family picnic.
San Francisco
JUST OPENED: Rocketbird
Rocketbird
This new arrival in the chicken sandwich game is going to blow you away with their larger-than-life crispy chicken sandwiches and sides that are too good to share. Located in Dogpatch, Rocketbird is offering takeout and delivery at the moment and you can pick up your order before heading down to the new Crane Cove Park that's just a block away.
This new SF chicken sandwich concept focuses on quality ingredients, delivery-proof dishes, eco-friendly practices and out-of-this-world flavors for every eater in your family. Kids will love the Lil' Bird meal that comes with hand-battered Mary's organic chicken breast strips, fries or carrots (get the fries!) and a choice of beverages. Overcome your decision fatigue and opt for the family meal that includes 12, 16 or 20 chicken strips, sides and dipping sauces. The queso is not to be skipped and the pimento mac and cheese is a kid and parent favorite.
Bonus that you'll love: For every sandwich purchased, Rocketbird donates a meal to the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank.
Gott’s Roadside is a Northern California roadside restaurant emphasizing locally-sourced ingredients with a modern take on American classics and California favorites. We love their massive burger menu with fun options like the Kimchi Burger and Texas Avocado Burger. Non-burger options include the Vietnamese Chicken Salad and Baja Fish Tacos. Don't skip out on their cookies and cream milkshake made with handspun organic ice cream. Take home some of their secret sauce!
Other locations: Palo Alto, St. Helena, Napa, Walnut Creek, Marin and SFO
1 Ferry Building #6 San Francisco, CA Online: gotts.com
Bourbon Burger Bar
Bourbon Burger Bar
Chef Michael Mina’s new Bourbon Burger Bar, offers takeout and delivery of the most indulgent and beloved burgers from his award-winning Bourbon Steak. Available for pickup and delivery, you'll have a hard time deciding which burger to take home with you. Traditionalist will love the Prime Dry Aged Steak Burger, while the Roasted Veggie Burger stands out for veggie lovers with its maitake mushroom, yuzu kosho aioli, pickled veggies, shredded napa cabbage and togarashi toasted bun. A kids cheeseburger and chicken tenders are available for smaller appetites.
101 California St. (at PABU) San Francisco, CA Online: bbot.menu
Tokyo Hot Chicken
Tokyo Hot Chicken
Tokyo Hot Chicken is a pop-up from the culinary minds of Chef Michael Mina and MINA Group. Hot Chicken meets Japanese Karaage, Tokyo Hot Chicken is the best of two worlds, combining the Nashville Classic with Japanese flavors and ingredients. Go for the 12-piece hot chicken meal if you'll be serving a crowd, or Mutha Cluckin Sando if you don't want to share. Sides like cheddar max and wasabi mashed potatoes will round out your meal.
101 California St. (at PABU) San Francisco, CA Online: bbot.menu
East Bay families swear by this Albany spot that serves up both burgers and organic, free-range chicken (plus hot dogs!). They also have a pretty killer house-made veggie patty that you must get topped with cider slaw and spicy BOSS sauce.
Families flock to this Oakland spot for their burgers and top-of-the-line milkshakes. Hand-formed burgers are cooked diner style on a flattop grill for that crispy texture we all love.
This spot at Hillsdale Mall just re-opened after originally opening just before COVID lockdowns began. Now they're ready to serve you and if you haven't been there, you definitely need to check it out! Winner offers signatureNashville-style hot fried chicken sandwiches, hot chicken tenders, gourmet inspired salads, and sides likemac and cheese,andbroccoli Caesar salad. They also have Little Winner meals available for the kids with two tenders or grilled chicken, plus one side, one sauce and a kids drink.
Winner’s signature hot chicken sandwichfeatures their specialty fried chicken: crispy, juicy and tender andoffered in four spice levels(WARNING:order extra spicy,only if you dare!).The sandwich is topped with housemadetangy slaw and comeback sauce (liike Thousand Island with a kick), servedon quite possibly the best bun we've ever tasted (it's made in house). Get the BBQ chicken eggrolls to share and the lemonade slushie for your beverage. If you're wanting a salad in lieu of a sandwich, go for Barry's Bootcamp with spicy chicken. It's large and in charge.
Indoor and outdoor dining are available on the mall terrace. Or order your meal to-go.
84 Hillsdale Shopping Center San Mateo, CA Online: winnerchicken.net
Love Burn serves up Nashville Hot Chicken with a unique spice blend to create the hottest chicken sandwich in the Bay Area. From a basic Level 0 to the “leave-you-on-the-floor” Level 4, they have something for all hot lovers far and wide. They are located inside Hometown Bowl in South San Francisco and are available for pick-up and delivery via UberEats, Doordash, and Grubhub.
National burger chain Wahlburgers set up shop in Palo Alto a few years ago and the Burlingame location is coming soon. Choose one of their favorite burgers like The Fiesta that comes with a southwest kick, or do your burger your way with dozens of toppings. Don't forget the fried pickles!
185 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA
Coming Soon: 1218 Burlingame Ave. Burlingame, CA Online: wahlburgers.com
It can't be, can it? Is this THE Amy's from all those vegetarian items in the freezer department of my grocery story? Yes it is! Head up to Rohnert Park, conveniently located basically right around the corner from Scandia Family Fun center miniature golf course. Their menu is complete with veggie burgers, fries and even organic milkshakes. Even if you're not in the area, but looking for a fun Sunday drive, Amy's won't disappoint. Get the full scoop here.
This Marin Country Mart eatery is a favorite for families and has plenty of outdoor seating. Everyone loves Shake Shack's famous burgers, crinkle cut fries, shakes and frozen custard. The 21+ crowd can sip on wine and beer all on the spacious outdoor patio that includes a foosball table.
1401 Larkspur Landing Circle Larkspur, CA
Other locations: San Francisco, Palo Alto, Glendale, Oakland and Santa Clara Online: shakeshack.com
If you’re not lucky enough to live in a state with an In-N-Out, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the goodness. The burger restaurant is floating into summer with a sweet new raft!
The Fry Boat Pool Float is the exact replica of the holder that carries those delicious, salty fries at In-N-Out. It even has the description printed on the inside!
photo: Courtesy of In-N-Out Company Store
The float measures six feet long by three feet wide, making it the perfect size for a solo float. You can grab you own fry boat only at the In-N-Out Company Store for $59.95. Order up!
Getting kids to eat vegetables is hard enough. Why not make things a little easier on yourself by outsourcing that task to the experts? Explore these vegan, vegetarian and plant-based restaurants with new and inventive ways of serving up one of the most important food groups. These kid-friendly spots will have your crew eating their daily greens in no time.
Head on over to a cozy corner off of California Avenue for nutrient-packed lunch for you and your little ones. There are salads and nourish bowls for you, and a variety of smoothies for your family. If a house-made nut and seed "not-tuna" sandwich sounds too exotic, try the "Nourish Burger" made out of quinoa and black beans instead. Nourish is strictly breakfast and lunch only. Pro Tip: There's a second location at 1030 Hyde street that is open until 7 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.
Wildseed truly has something for everyone at this plant-based restaurant. They have a variety of veggie burgers, vegetarian pizzas and red velvet flaxseed pancakes (brunch only!) for the kiddos, salads, and bowls for you and a full bar for anyone needing a little pick-me-up. Wildseed attempts to keep their ingredients local, and their menu nutritious with their registered dietician on staff. Take solace knowing this restaurant is owned by the same people who own Super Duper, so the burger must measure up. Pro tip: Check out their Brunch menu on Saturday or Sunday.
2000 Union Street San Francisco, CA Online: wildseedsf.com
Greens
Jennifer Snyder
We would be remiss to NOT include Greens restaurant who has been setting the standard for vegetarian food since 1979 in San Francisco. Located in a beautiful setting right on the Bay down in Fort Mason, Greens is sure to keep kids distracted by the boats, the Bay and the foot traffic long enough for their food to arrive. Take your friends who claim to be true meat lovers to this restaurant. The food is so good, they won't know what hit them. Shhhhh there's a secret kids menu that is incredibly accommodating for any picky tiny bellies. If you're still not convinced your kids will find something to eat, try the brunch menu—it's a sure-thing!
Souley Vegan opened in Oakland in 2009 and has since spread to San Francisco and even Los Angeles. This restaurant serves up all the typical soul food fare including Gumbo and Jambalaya but with a plant-based spin. For any little ones who consider this menu too adventurous, no problem Souley's got you covered with a PB&J or a delicious black bean and quinoa burger all of which are sure to get a solid two thumbs up.
Although the title would suggest otherwise, this is a 100% plant-based Italian restaurant serving up all the usual fare but with a vegetarian spin. Your kids will have no trouble finding something to whet their palate, but they may have trouble landing on a decision. Even their kid's pasta has three choices for a sauce: plant-based tomato sauce, butter sauce with nutritional yeast (they'll never know what hit them!), or a creamy cashew-based pesto sauce. Head on over to Berkeley for this delightful refresh of your usual Italian fare.
Chef, father and owner Toriano Gordon opened this restaurant in the Lakeshore district of Oakland after adapting a plant-based diet into his own life. He decided to share his cooking with a larger population outside of his own family and we're all glad he did. Your kids can choose from things like the "Smackaroni", "Deep-fried grilled cheese", or an "Impossible Burger" while you decide between the "Nacho cheesesteak" made from plant-based brisket or the "Impossible Tacos". Just don't tell your kiddos it's all vegan.
500 Lake Park Ave Oakland, CA Online: veganmob.biz
Peninsula/South Bay
Chef Reina
Chef Reina
Chef Reina, aka Nick's Kitchen, has been serving up Filipino plant-based fare in Daly City since 2016. It has all the usual Filipino food you would expect including a Loco Moco, Ube pancakes, and Adobo "Chicken". Chef Reina has set the standard with the Peninsula's first Filipino Vegan restaurant. The switch from Nick's Kitchen to the online storefront of Chef Reina happened due to COVID to ensure the Peninsula would not lose its beloved fare. Pro Tip: Chef Reina is available for pick-up or delivery only.
25 Washington St Daly City, CA Online: chefreina.com
Happy Hooligans
Jennifer Snyder
Happy Hooligans is putting its own spin on fast food by creating a take-out only menu with Vegan Burgers, Vegan Fish N' Chips, and Bacon Ranch Cheese Fries made with soy and house-made cheese sauce. Your kiddos eyes will pop when you tell them (after they've eaten, of course!) that their chicken nuggets are made entirely from plant-based ingredients.
At first glance, this bistro appears to just be your typical restaurant with very typical menu items, but upon further inspection you'll find all items are plant-based. All burgers are "Impossible Meat", burritos can include farro or sunflower seeds, and the pesto pizza is made with pistachios. Be sure to save room for a cherry soda and a gluten-free peanut butter cup for dessert. Pro tip: Entice your other family members to join you with their local brews on tap.
1899 Mendocino Ave Santa Rosa, CA Online: cozyplum.com
It can't be, can it? Is this THE Amy's from all those vegetarian items in the freezer department of my grocery story? Yes it is! Head up to Rohnert Park, conveniently located basically right around the corner from Scandia Family Fun center miniature golf course. Their menu is complete with veggie burgers, fries and even organic milkshakes. Even if you're not in the area, but looking for a fun Sunday drive, Amy's won't disappoint. Get the full scoop here.
58 Golf Course Drive West Rohnert Park, CA Online: amysdrivethru.com
Slice of Life serves up southwestern food with a vegetarian flair. Complete with the ever-popular avocado toast, a Cali burrito made with cashew queso, and a Californian Rueben with Tempeh. If all this sounds tooo healthy for your little spinach haters, fret not as a kids menu and some healthy beverages are cleverly disguised as enticing sounding juices and shakes.
Need a night off from cooking dinner, but just not feeling ordering in pizza—again? Not to worry. Los Angeles has plenty of burger joints that offer both pick-up and delivery. Of course, if your kid has only ever tried the patties at, say, Island’s or In & Out, then it might be time to broaden your burger repertoire. Read on for our list of LA’s best burgers (including tasty, on-trend smash burgers and Impossible ones, too!).
Get your smash burger fix at Easy Street, where the double burger is all the rage. Sink your teeth into two smashed pure beef patties and American cheese, sandwiched between a Martin's Famous potato roll. Choose your toppings of tangy pickle, chopped onions, ketchup, mustard, and Easy Street's special wild sauce. For vegetarians, there's a Beyond Meat option made with Follow Your Heart Vegan Cheese.
Covid Update: Open for takeout and delivery only, Fri.-Sat., 4p.m.-9p.m.
Another smash burger spot, The Win-Dow now has two locations in Venice. In addition to their signature burger, the menu also features a fried chicken sandwich, along with vegetarian options including a grain bowl, kale salad and the plant-based Beauty Burger. Added bonus? The newest spot on the Venice Boardwalk has boasts an ice cream menu that's sure to win over little ones.
Since 1948, Cassell’s Hamburgers has been serving LA families premium hamburgers that are ground daily in-house using the original grinder, cooked on the original crossfire broiler and are made into patties via the original press. Cassell’s original location is in Koreatown’s historic Hotel Normandie and features a classic '50s breakfast menu, a variety of milkshakes and malts, a coffee bar, homemade pies and a fully stocked bar. (They also have a location downtown and at LAX.) The burgers are outstanding, but if littles are in the mood for something different, we highly recommend the DFC Fried Chicken Sando—yum!
Covid Update: While the downtown location is currently closed, you can order for pickup and delivery from the Koreatown and Rancho Park location. There's also a take-home DIY Burger Kit, so you can cook up your own patties for the fam.
A Valley institution since 1965, Bill’s Hamburgers stand in Van Nuys serves up some of the tastiest burgers, with 93-year-old Bill still working the counter. There's nothing fancy-shmancy here—no wagyu, no truffles, no lettuce sourced from sustainable farms. Just good old-fashioned beef patties (with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle and ketchup), on buns cooked to absolute juicy perfection, plus a bag of chips on the side (Bill’s doesn’t do fries).
Good to Know: Bill's is only open from Tues.-Fri. until 4 p.m., and it's cash only.
Covid Update: Open for outdoor ordering and curbside pickup; masks are required and patrons must stand 6 feet apart.
Just as all beef patties are not the same, so too are plant-based Impossible patties. (Preparation is key!) If you've tried one of these environmentally friendly meatless burgers in the past and thought, meh, then you definitely haven't been to Monty's. The all-vegan spot (with multiple locations) serves up perfectly cooked Impossible burgers with vegan cheese, grilled onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles and house sauce, all on a fresh-made potato bun. It's so good that no one will ask, "Where's the beef?" Of course, no burger joint is complete without shakes and fries and Monty's delivers on that front too, offering fries (and tater tots), plus dairy-free shakes that are as good as the real thing—maybe better.
Covid Update: Open for takeout only. Contactless checkout and no-touch hand sanitizing stations available.
This recently opened spot in Larchmont Village specializes in smashburgers, thin-pressed carmelized beef patties covered in melted cheese and Uncool's secret sauce. They also offer buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches, pie turnovers and milkshakes, along with yummy plant-based burgers for non-carnivores. And because this is LA, you can get your meal gluten-free, too.
Covid Update: Order online for pickup or delivery; outdoor, socially distanced seating available in back.
139 1/2 N. Larchmont Blvd. Windsor Square 323-417-7900 Online: uncool.fun
Some things just get better with age. Case in point, The Apple Pan in the heart of West LA. For over 70 years, The Apple Pan has delighted customers with their famous hickory burgers quickly followed by a slice of mmmm-mmmm good homemade apple pie.
Covid Update:
Good to Know: The Apple Pan accepts cash only.
10801 Pico Blvd. West Los Angeles 310-475-3585 Online: theapplepanla.com
As the only burger restaurant to exclusively serve 100 percent grass-fed Wagyu beef, Santa Monica’s popular HiHo Cheeseburger takes the burger experience to a whole new level. You'll get meat that’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, that not only tastes better, but it’s also better for you too. Their premium Wagyu is low in saturated fat, high in Omega-3s and vitamins, and is certified humane and sustainably raised with no antibiotics, GMOs or hormones. Families who are looking for a high quality, clean burger meal are sure to become loyal customers.
Covid Update:
1320 2nd St., Ste. B Santa Monica 310-469-7250 Online: hiho.la
–Shahrzad Warkentin, Jennifer O’Brien & Shannan Rouss
With Halloween festivities looking different this year, Smashburger wants to give your kiddos a reason to still dress up.
The burger chain is giving away free, full-sized vanilla milkshakes and the only catch? You gotta wear a costume!
photo: Smashburger
All families need to do is visit a Smashburger on Oct. 31 and kids who are 12 and under and wearing a costume will get a free milkshake with any purchase. It couldn’t be easier!
Your summer may not have gone as planned. You may have booked a trip to Thailand to try some authentic Pad Thai or to Italy for some homemade one-of-a-kind pasta. DoorDash just announced a new initiative to help Americans salvage their summers.
DoorDash’s Deep Dish Survey found that 63% of Americans have cancelled a vacation due to COVID-19. What’s more, 75% said food is important in determining summer travel plans (a stat that spikes among gen-z to 86% and 84% for millennials) and over 55% prefer to order takeout while on a summer vacation.
In celebration of the trip you never got to take, and in anticipation of your (hopefully) rebooked trip, DoorDash will be sending free $20 gift cards to help curb your wanderlust, and your appetite, with the meals you were most looking forward to by recreating that experience at home.
Simply share your story of your cancelled trip with us on Twitter, tagging @DoorDash and using hashtag #LastDashOfSummer
DoorDash will DM you a $20 gift card (one per person while supplies last) to encourage users to order food from the destinations they were longing to visit this year, recreating their trip from the safety of their homes
To enhance your order-in experience, if you share a photo on Instagram of how you’re re-creating your summer plans safely at home with #LastDashOfSummer, you’ll be entered for a chance to win a limited edition Last Dash of Summer basket, created to bring the experiences of going to the beach, on a road trip, camping, and more!
Among the limited edition baskets are:
Camping Basket: Perfect for the all levels of outdoorsiness, this basket includes a duffel bag, a National Park Collection Candle, Blue Kazoo, Wildsam Field Guides, jar of dirt, plastic mini camping toys, National Park themed socks, and a Bestie Blanket – bringing the wilderness to you.
Beach Basket: If the ocean is calling your name, this basket including a striped beach tote, frisbee, beach blanket, Zinka nose coat sunscreen, and inflatable beach balls will transport you to the beach in no time.
Road Trip Basket: If you’re itching to hit the road, this basket featuring a brand-name cooler, white fuzzy hanging dice, ‘Airstream’ figurine, Route 66 sign, and Wildsam Field Guides is a great way to satisfy your wanderlust.
Beyond enhancing the order-in-experience, for those looking to further recreate their favorite summer moments at home, DoorDash is also giving away limited-edition Last Dash Of Summer picnic kits—exclusively available via pickup to bring the magic of picnicking in the park to your home porch or backyard. Available starting on Aug.27 and while supplies last, DoorDash customers who place an order for pickup through the DoorDash app from 10 participating restaurants across the nation will receive a free Last Dash Of Summer picnic kit with their order, prepared with backyard picnic necessities to escape your daily routine and make home feel like a vacation, all while supporting a local business.
The backyard picnic kits include: a round cooler, a fleece blanket, a wine tumbler, a cutting board, a beach ball, wheat straw utensils and sanitizer wipes.
Among the participating restaurants are:
RT Rotisserie, San Francisco: the sister restaurant of Michelin-starred Rich Table, RT Rotisserie puts a casual, counter-serve spin on roasted meats & New American sides.
Cafe Gratitude, Los Angeles: Chef Seizan Dreux Ellis oversees the development and execution of the plant-based menu offering health-based, flavor driven cuisine of organic, plant-based (vegan) food all supportive of local farmers, sustainable and regenerative agriculture, and environmentally friendly products.
La Pecora Bianca, New York City: locally sourced, Italian seasonal cuisine with an approachable menu emphasizing vegetables and house-made pastas.
Surfside Taco Stand, Washington, D.C.: Since opening in 2008, Surfside has established itself as one of DC’s favorite spots for the best tacos, burritos, and fresh-Mex in town.
Wahlburgers, Boston: fresh burgers, house-made condiments, crispy haddock, seared chicken and more from Mark Wahlberg and his brothers.
Quartino, Chicago: authentic regional Italian small-plates including artisanal salumi, Neapolitan thin-crust pizza, house-made pasta and seasonal dishes.
Farm Burger, Atlanta: co-founded by Jason Mann, an organic farmer & rancher and George Frangos, a hospitality veteran, Farm Burger offers locally sourced ingredients and grass fed beef burgers, alongside salads, fries and milkshakes.
Bento Davie, Miami: quick-casual pan-asian dishes including sushi, rice and noodle bowls, and boba tea, started by two brothers, Jimmy & Johnny, with over 10 locations in Florida.
The Burger Joint, Houston: hand-crafted burgers made with locally-sourced Texas beef & specialty milkshakes, considered by many to be ‘Houston’s Best Burger’.
Pizzeria Vetri, Philadelphia: Founded by award-winning chef, Marc Vetri, Pizzeria Vetri offers authentic pizza made exactly the right way, using fresh ingredients, cooked in a wood-fire oven
Only ’90s kids will remember these goofy but heartfelt family movies from their childhoods—but that doesn’t have to be the case. This list for ages 10 & under is perfect for nostalgic parents looking to show their kids what life was like before iPhones or YouTube but who also are glad the days of pagers and VHS are behind them. Rewind the clock, not the tape, with classics like Toy Story, The Sandlot, and the original Good Burger. They’re so good, you’ll almost miss your Beanie Babies and bleached tips. To see the full list of ’90s kids’ movies, check it out at Common Sense Media, and for more nostalgic picks, check out Best ’80s Movies and Classic Cartoons Parents Love to Share with Kids.
1. Kiki's Delivery Service
From celebrated animator Hayao Miyazaki, this gentle story tracks Kiki, a witch in a new city, as she makes friends, starts a delivery service (on her broom, of course), and experiences a crisis of confidence related to puberty. An ideal family film, Kiki's Delivery Service will be especially meaningful to any child (or adult) who has grappled with the responsibilities of independence and peer group problems. Recommended for ages 5 and older Directed by Hayao Miyazaki (Buena Vista, 1998).
2. Toy Story
This beloved animated feature about a boy’s toys, who come alive when he leaves the room, will charm kids and adults alike. When Woody accidentally pushes his new rival, Buzz Lightyear, out the window, Woody works to right his wrong and rescue Buzz. Adventure, mild peril, and positive messages about loyalty and teamwork abound in this crowd-pleasing classic. Recommended for ages 5 and older Directed by John Lasseter (Pixar Animation Studios, 1995)
3. Aladdin
Disney’s animated retelling of the classic folktale recounts the story of sweet street kid Aladdin as he seeks to win over princess Jasmine with the help of show-stealer Genie, voiced by the incomparable Robin Williams. Some characters reflect objectionable stereotypes, but the overall message of staying true to yourself will appeal to parents, while kids will fall in love with the exciting story and catchy soundtrack. Recommended for ages 6 and older Directed by John Musker, Ron Clements (Walt Disney Pictures, 1992)
4. Babe
Babe is widely considered one of the best family movies of all time for good reason. This beloved live-action farm story of a spunky little pig who aspires to be a sheepdog, but seems destined for the dinner table, will inspire viewers of all ages to dream big, persevere, and love well. Recommended for ages 6 and older Directed by Chris Noonan (Universal Pictures, 1995)
5. The Iron Giant
The Iron Giant is filled with the kind of action kids love, like a giant robot under attack; buildings, trains, and cars crashing; Hogarth, the boy hero, creeping through a dark forest looking for "trouble"; and an arrogant, mean-spirited villain who poses great danger to the world. The exceptionally good script and thought-provoking ideas will win over parents, making this a film the whole family will adore. Recommended for ages 6 and older Directed by Brad Bird (Warner Bros., 1999)
6. The Parent Trap
In this delightful remake of the 1961 original, twins brought up by divorced parents on different continents meet up at summer camp, switch places, and plot to get their parents back together. A young Lindsay Lohan is fantastic as both twins, and the implausibility of the story is overcome by its humor and sweetness. Kids and parents both will get a kick out of this movie. Recommended for ages 6 and older Directed by Nancy Meyers (Walt Disney Pictures, 1999)
7. Space Jam
This animation/live-action mix, where good triumphs over evil, enjoys cult status amongst parents of a certain age. The Looney Tunes characters of old here team up with basketball great Michael Jordan to overcome their would-be alien masters. This quirky movie is a solid pick for family movie night, and will especially impress younger viewers with its heroic characters and funny action sequences. Recommended for ages 7 and older Directed by Joe Pytka (Warner Bros., 1996)
8. Sandlot
Set in the 1960s, The Sandlot follows a group of neighborhood friends who hit a valuable ball into a junkyard. They devise an elaborate scheme to evade a terrifying guard dog and retrieve the ball. With its themes of summer-time fun, friendship, and teamwork, the movie has a sun-kissed, nostalgic tone that both kids and parents will appreciate. Recommended for ages 8 and older Directed by David M. Evans (Twentieth Century Fox, 1993)
9. Good Burger
Good Burger has an absurd charm. A slapstick comedy about two teenagers who do the bare minimum at work until they realize their jobs are at stake, they end up showing loyalty, a strong work ethic, a moral compass, and a lot of smarts. Silly jokes and pratfalls will have kids laughing and parents will appreciate the solid positivity of the film. Recommended for ages 10 and older Directed by Brian Robbins (Paramount Home Media Distribution, 1997)
Common Sense Media is an independent nonprofit organization offering unbiased ratings and trusted advice to help families make smart media and technology choices. Check out our ratings and recommendations at www.commonsense.org.
Move over queso, this new dip is dill-icious! Taste of the South Fried Pickles & Ranch Dip just landed exclusively at select Sam’s Clubs. Now you just have to stock up on things to dip into it.
Taste of the South Fried Pickles and Ranch Dip is made from real whipped cream cheese and sour cream mixed with crunchy dill pickles and ranch seasoning. This tangy dip goes with just about anything pickles do. Add a dollop to your burger, pair with your favorite chips or serve alongside vegetable crudites.
You can find the 24 ounce tubs of Fried Pickle & Ranch Dip at Sam’s Club for $4.98. It is available at locations in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
Earthlings of Los Angeles, did you know that you could be transported to another planet just 20 minutes outside of town? Epic, glacier-like rocks jut jaggedly from earth to the sky at Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park. If they weren’t real, you’d think it was an elaborate movie set, but sometimes the truth is cooler than fiction. So pack up your sunscreen and hiking shoes, and go explore this final frontier in the Santa Clarita Valley.
Since we live in LA, we question the reality of everything, right? In fact, Vasquez Rocks has been the location for tons of movies like The Flinstones, Austin Powers, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure (yes way!), and it was used as Spock’s home planet in Star Trek. But these are natural formations, and we’ve got the science and history to prove it.
About the Rocks
Here’s a (super) quick history and geology lesson to make the experience educational as well as fun. It’s as cool as a movie plot. Twenty-five million years ago—extra points for saying million with a Dr. Evil accent—two tectonic plates collided (the North American and Pacific to be exact). The earthquake caused the rocky earth to uplift, and over time erosion created these incredible rock formations.
Fast forward to 1872 and meet Vasquez Rocks’ namesake, a “charming” criminal named Tiburcio Vasquez. Vasquez was wanted for a saloon-brawl-turned-murder, and on the run, he made a living robbing wagons and stealing horses. He did time in San Quentin Prison, escaped San Quentin, and became one of the most notorious bandits in California’s history, dubbed “The Scourge of California.” His main hideout was, you guessed it, in the caves of Vasquez Rocks. It’s rumored he hid a 500 pound brick of silver in one of the rock’s crevices. So tell the kids you’re on a treasure hunt!
When you first get there, the Interpretive Center is a must-see. You can catch a kid-friendly movie on how the rocks were formed, cool off, see some local animals, use the restroom (only port-a-potties outside otherwise), and fill up your water bottles from the only drinking fountain on the premises. Make sure you stop here first to grab guidebooks that will explain trail markers.
Now head outside, where it’s all about being an explorer. There are low sloping rocks for little kids to crawl and gigantic, steep ones for those who are older and more adventurous. Geology trails are bountiful but many just walk around without taking a formal path. Picnic benches are scattered throughout the sandy-dirt and brush park. If you veer right off the main road, there’s a “secret” hideout cave. There’s no official trail to it, but you can see it from the top of the main rocks and navigate your way there, like an outlaw.
Packing List
Consider this your “don’t leave home without it” list, in order to fully enjoy the park.
SPF & Hats: There is very little shade and it can get 20-30 degrees warmer here in the summer months than in the city. For those up early, consider going at sunrise when it’s the most peaceful and the sun gives the rocks an ethereal glow. (You may run into Charlize Theron who has been known to enjoy the park with her son at this time of day.)
Sturdy Hiking or Tennis Shoes: Absolutely do not wear flip-flops or sandals here.
Water: Bring twice as much as you think you’ll need. Bring a cooler for the car filled with fresh cold water on the drive home.
Pants: The brush can be scratchy and if your kid (or you!) take any kind of stumble, it’s skin vs. rock, and rock always wins.
Camera: There are so many scenic spots here you will want to capture.
First Aid Kit: There could be some slipping in the loose sandy dirt. Make like a scout and be prepared with some ointment and band-aids just in case.
An Old Towel or Change of Shoes: After your adventure, it’s helpful to have an old towel to dust off or a change of shoes to make the drive home more comfortable.
photo credit: Shannon Guyton
Nearby in Agua Dulce
You’ve done the drive, you’re sweaty and hungry, so why not hop over to nearby Agua Dulce, a charming small town just a few minutes drive from the rocks?
If you just want to get something “quick” on the way home, there’s always the In-N-Out Burger off the 14 freeway at Sand Canyon. And you’ll wish you could beam up a burger because the lines are just as long here as elsewhere in the city.
Cost: Free and open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset. Parking’s free as well (a dirt lot amid the rocks you’ll be climbing) until 7 p.m. Warning: this is not an “ish” closing time—your car will be locked in as of 7:01 p.m. Hours: Spring/Summer: Wed.-Fri. from 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Close Mon. & Tues.