2020 has certainly been one for the books. As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a look back at our top stories, the ones that helped you get through not one, but two stay at home orders, months of virtual learning and a spate of cancellations (cancelled camps, cancelled vacations, cancelled birthday parties and more). From a roundup of epic waterfall hikes to the ultimate drive-in movie guide, here are the stories that made pandemic life more bearable, and, well, even a little bit fun.
Totally Candid Advice from LA Teachers
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To help parents manage at-home learning at the start of the school year, we went straight to the source and got LA teachers to share what they wish parents knew. They revealed the worst spot in the house for kids to Zoom from and the one thing you need to help students focus. Get all their still very relevant advice here.
Free Online Activities from LA Museums
Courtesy of Kidspace Children's Museum
While our favorite LA museums have been closed for most of the year, they've kept busy (and helped keep kids busy), with live-stream videos, fun DIY projects, interactive maps, and more. Discover all the free learning fun here.
Boredom Busters That Really Work
Courtesy of Bekki Herzon
As LA's first stay at home orders wore on, we were desperate for at-home activities and projects that would actually keep kiddos entertained. (And didn't involve toilet paper rolls!) Local moms came to the rescue, sharing their tried and true tips.
When everything else was still closed, hiking trails mercifully reopened in LA. And not a moment too soon. For anyone worried about crowded paths and keeping six feet apart, we brought you 9 hidden, family-friendly hikes around town.
We spent a lot of time circling our own neighborhood block this year. But when that wasn't enough to tire out two-wheeling tots, these car-free bike paths and trails offered a safe alternative.
Road trips and private, short-term rentals were the way to travel this year. To help satisfy your wanderlust and delight your kids, we found 14 California treehouses for your next getaway.
The Ultimate Drive-In Movie Guide
istock
With movie theaters closed, 2020 became the year of the pop-up drive-in. Each month, we bring you a schedule of all the drive-in flicks showing around LA. See what's still playing at pop-ups in December.
Thank goodness for the great outdoors. Never have we appreciated LA's breathtaking botanical gardens more than this year, when they provided a much-needed change of scenery.
This perennial favorite was particularly popular this year, when everyone was looking for a chance to discover a little magic, beauty and serenity. In case you missed it, here are five awe-inspiring waterfall hikes for kids.
12 Things Every LA Parent Should Know About Learning Pods
With Los Angeles County public schools offering online-only instruction in the fall (and parents of pre-schoolers nervous about sending little ones back to classrooms), more and more Los Angeles parents are considered starting up their own pandemic pod (aka micro-schools, aka quaranteams). For the pod-curious, we revealed everything you needed to know about the at-home learning trend.
Editor’s Note: Guidelines and restrictions for California and LA County are constantly evolving. We are doing our best to provide you with the latest information and what’s safely open for kids and families. Because the situation is fluid, please check before visiting any of the destinations below. And as always, wear a mask, social distance and stay home if you’re feeling sick.
Last week, with Covid cases and hospitalizations surging in Los Angeles, the LA County Department of Health issued a new new advisory, recommending everyone “stay at home as much as possible.” The new orders closed playgrounds, while parks and beaches remained open for “passive use” (think running, biking and hiking). But now, a week later, LA playgrounds have reopened and we’re doing a happy dance! Keep reading for the details on the reopening, plus find out what else is open and closed in Los Angeles.
OPEN:
Outdoor Playgrounds
Shannan Rouss
After briefly closing playgrounds, LA County reversed its position and reopened them on Dec. 9. "Play is crucial for childhood development. But low-income communities of color living in dense housing often do not have access to a yard," L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis wrote on Twitter. "With distance learning, having access to public playgrounds is more important now than ever."
Of course, masks are required and you should maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others. For that reason, county officials also recommend avoiding crowded playgrounds. And because playground equipment is not regularly sanitized, you'll want to de-germ children's hands regularly with your own sanitizer.
October brought the limited reopening of indoor shopping at malls, along with outdoor shopping at places like The Grove, The Americana at Brand and Westfield Topanga & The Village. These places continue to be open, with masks and social distancing, but capacity is limited to 20 percent.
Looking for a change of scenery and a chance to check out fall leaves at their finest? Head to one of LA's sprawling botanic gardens for a safe and serene socially-distanced outing.
Since the summer, drive-in theaters have been drawing big crowds. In addition to permanent drive-ins, pop-up versions have taken place around town—at hotels, malls, the L.A. zoo and more. Check out our round-up of the latest kid-friendly drive-in screenings.
CLOSED:
Zoos, Aquariums & Animal Sanctuaries
Covid Update: As of Dec. 6, the LA Zoo and Long Beach Aquarium have both announced they are closed until further notice. Wildlife centers and animal sanctuaries may still be open for private tours and visits.
Restaurants are now closed for outdoor dining, but still open for pickup and delivery. Once restaurants can resume outdoor business, be sure to check out our favorite patios for dining out with the family.
While movie theaters remain closed, AMC briefly opened LA locations for private rentals via their AMC Safe & Clean program. Rentals are on hold for now. Save this link to submit a rental request once safety guidelines have changed.
It’s time to get ready to hit those Black Friday sales. In recent years, shopping commenced before the turkey was served. It can be challenging to plan out your Thanksgiving menu along with your holiday shopping. To help keep our calendars organized, RetailMeNot has compiled a list of confirmed and projected Black Friday store hours.
Happy shopping!
A.C. Moore Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: Opens at 5 a.m.
Academy Sports + Outdoors Thanksgiving Day: Closed, shoppers can get deals online or in-store from November 22-28 Black Friday: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Ace Hardware Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: Varies by location
Ann Taylor Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: Varies by location
Apple Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Navy Exchange Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: Opens at 5 a.m.
Neiman Marcus Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: Opens at 8 a.m.
New Balance Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
New York & Company
Thanksgiving Day: 6 p.m. Black Friday: Opens at 6 a.m, but check local mall hours
Nordstrom Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: Opens at 8 a.m, but check local store hours
Office Depot and OfficeMax Thanksgiving Day: Closed, but sales start online at 12:01 a.m. ET Black Friday: Opens at 8 a.m.
Old Navy Thanksgiving Day: Opens at 3 p.m. and many do not close, but some close at 1 a.m. Black Friday: Many stay open from Thanksgiving until 11 p.m., but some open at 5 a.m.
PacSun Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
PetSmart Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: Yet to be announced
Pottery Barn Thanksgiving Day: Closed Black Friday: Yet to be announced
Sure, your kids know Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and Vixen. But after a trip to the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, where they’ll have reindeer eating right out of their hands, they’ll be all about Elsa, Sugar Plum and Forrest. Add in a photo opp with Santa and you’ve got a truly magical holiday experience. Read on to make your plan!
Gather ‘Round the Campfire
The reindeer farm experience starts like all good ones do, around a cozy campfire. Relax at a picnic table or pull up a comfy chair, because this part of the day is all about cool reindeer facts, fun trivia and some silly puns that’ll make your kids chuckle. It’s also a chance for families to touch antlers, feel real antler velvet and ask the owners questions about their farm. And don’t worry, there’s plenty of hand sanitizer and ways to socially distance while you and the kids learn fascinating facts.
Make a New Friend
After the campfire, it’s time to meet the stars of the show. Before entering the reindeer enclosure, there’s a brief safety orientation, and then it’s go time. Although visitors only interact with the animals for about 15 minutes, it’s plenty of time for your kiddos to feed, pet and gaze in awe (or aww, take your pick) at these amazing creatures. They definitely know the routine and aren’t shy about approaching anyone with a cup of food, so if you have cautious kiddos, be sure to let them know. This is also the perfect time to take all the pictures. Staff is available to take them for you if you want to join the kids, standing alongside experienced reindeer models like Elsa and Sven. Smile!
Delight in Farm Activities
While visiting the farm, be sure to take advantage of all the bells and whistles that are part of the experience. Families can find bowls of food near the barn to feed the chickens, who will eagerly eat whatever you offer. There’s a sweet swingset that will keep your kiddos busy for quite a while on a sunny winter day, and the vintage tractor with the barn and oversized wreath in the background make for festive photos. Don’t forget to introduce your kids to Tom the turkey who likes to show off for visitors.
Sit Down with Santa
While the reindeer will get your kids in the door, we know that meeting the Big Guy is the moment they’ve been waiting for. This year, Santa will be wearing a face shield and families can choose their comfort level when interacting with him. Stand to one side, give an elbow bump or simply a wave, he’ll still be taking orders for special toys and posing for your annual Christmas photos. When you book your experience, keep in mind that the Winter Farm Tours plus Santa Claus Meet kick off on Nov. 14 and run through Dec. 29 (with the exception of Nov. 16, 20 & 27; Santa has other plans). Photos are included with pricing. Be sure you’ve got room on your phone!
Explore Leavenworth
An added bonus of this excursion is that it’s just a few minutes from the holiday hustle and bustle of downtown Leavenworth. When hunger strikes warm up with a bowl of hot bone broth soup and spectacular mountain views at Yodelin. All seating is outdoors and tented to keep you safe during COVID, and the metal plates, cups and paper-free menu is par for the course at this restaurant committed to sustainability. After a meal, take time to dash in and out of shops on Front Street—the Nutcracker Museum and Gingerbread Factory are timely faves your kids will love. The street is closed to traffic so you can wander with plenty of space and enjoy the holiday lights too. Waterfront Park is another great spot to find space and fresh air, even on cooler days. Its flat, stroller-friendly walking trails, hidden ponds and bridges are naturally intriguing spots to for kids to explore. And if you still have time left in your day, many of Leavenworth’s sleigh ride providers are booking reservations for the season. After a busy day your kids will crash on the way home. And to all a good night!
Good to know: 1. Starting Nov. 14, families can check in at the cozy kiosk in the parking lot where they can also grab a cup of hot cocoa and a cookie before heading down to the farm. This will help with social distancing too.
2. Make sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before your ticketed time slot. Earlier is better, as families can use this time to play on the farm playground and maybe even meet the horses.
3. The tour lasts about one hour from start to finish, and new tour groups start every 30 minutes, so things move quickly.
4. Closed-toed shoes or boots will keep feet warm, dry and safe in the muddy corral, and dressing for the weather will keep your kids happy. Psst…they have umbrellas out to use in case in rains, but bringing your own is easy too.
5. When it comes to COVID, masks are required, and families will find hand sanitizer in a few key spots around the farm (although packing a pocket stash never hurts). Temp checks before entry are planned to start Nov. 14.
Cost: $20/person; free for kids 3 & under Ages: All
It’s time to lace up those sneakers because we are nearing the starting line for Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales! This week, Old Navy released their upcoming deals and you won’t want to miss any of them.
This year, the retailer is launching sales over an expanded time frame so customers can snag the best deals both online and in store. Additionally, shoppers can take advantage of Contactless Curbside Pickup and Buy Online, Pickup In-Store options for the safest shopping experience possible. Keep scrolling to see all the deals!
The Pre-Big Friday Sale runs from Thur., Nov. 19 through Sun., Nov. 22 and customers can get 40% off everything in-store and at oldnavy.com. Then Mon., Nov. 23 through Fri., Nov. 27, the five-day Big Friday Sale will give customers 50% off everything in-store and also on oldnavy.com (exclusions apply).
From Wed. Nov. 25 through Sun Nov. 29 don’t forget to stock up on socks because the fan fave $1 Cozy Sock Sale is back! The sale is running longer than ever this year and is the perfect doorbuster for shopping for stocking stuffers.
But that’s not all. Saturday Nov. 28 and Sun. Nov. 29 offers Cyber weekend sales with with 50% off all jeans and sweaters.
All Old Navy store locations will be closed nationwide on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, but shoppers can still shop online and Old Navy’s Buy Online, Pickup In-Store or Curbside Pickup options so that you can pick up your orders as early as 6 a.m. on Fri.Nov. 27.
If you’re an Old Navy Cardmember, you’ll get early access to the Big Friday Sale with 50% off your purchase from Fri., Nov. 13 through Mon., Nov. 16 when you use your card, with a second Big Friday pre-sale happening from Thur. Nov. 12 through Sun. Nov. 22. Cardmembers also snag early access to the Cozy Sock sale for an entire week from Thur., Nov. 12 through Wed., Nov. 18.
When it comes to shopping, Old Navy will have extended hours. On Wed., Nov. 25, stores will be open at 8 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. On Black Friday, Nov. 27, stores will open at 12 a.m. and remain open until 11 p.m.
Disney parks were closed for quite some time this year and we’re all in need of a little extra magic. Luckily, Adams Media new cookbook is here to give us the Mickey fix we all want.
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook is packed with 100 recipes and they’re all Disney inspired. From park classics like churros and Dole Whips to new offerings that include Star Wars blue milk, this book is a must for Disney foodies.
The cookbook is organized by park and includes Disneyland, the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and California Adventure. With whimsical maps that show your fave parks and gorgeous photos, The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook highlights some of the most iconic food spots and treats that every park goer loves.
Some of the tasty recipes include Mint Juleps, The Grey Stuff, Beignets and Campfire Chili. You can preorder the book now on Amazon for $21.99 for delivery on its release date, Nov. 10.
It’s a poorly kept secret that Chicago is home to some of the best children’s museums in the world where learning through interactive play is at the core of every program, exhibit and activity. Because of the number of touchpoints and the hands-on nature of these museums, state guidelines have left many of them closed for in-person visits. However, they’ve really stepped up to the plate since March developing content and resources to address the evolving needs of Chicago families. One benefit of this new, temporary virtual model is each museum has become more accessible to a greater number of Chicagoans. Read through our list of favorites and find out about available resources and how to access.
Chicago Children's Museum remains closed due to COVID-19 with no open date in sight, but they've created online resources to stay connected with and support Chicago families. While you await your chance to play again, visit their Recipes for Play at Home and Parenting Playbook pages. These online resources give at-home activities, video guides and well-curated content.
Follow their Instagram for fun at-home content and opening updates and consider making a donation to ensure in-person visits to Chicago Children's Museum can be a part of your future.
While Kohl Children's Museum isn't fully open, there are a couple different ways you can visit. Their Kohl Kids Live offers small-group discovery sessions in Habitat Park. Your 90-minute session will include stops at 5 different stations covering Story Time, Art Adventures, Science Sleuths, Theatre Games and Fitness Games.
They also recently added V.I.P (Very Important Play) Sessions, which allows you to enjoy exclusive 2-hour access to the exhibits you love in a safe and clean environment.
If you'd prefer to keep your interactions virtual, visit their Teaching Resources page which was created to support parents, caregivers and teachers in bringing interactive lessons to the home. To support the museum and their delivery of future content, consider making a donation.
The history museum might not pop in your head right away when considering which museum to bring your kids to, but it’s definitely worth a look-see. And, they're open to the public! You're encouraged to purchase your tickets in advance, as they are restricted by state guidelines to the number of visitors they can have in the building.
Kid-favorite Sensing Chicago remains closed due to its highly interactive nature. However, kids can get a glimpse into what Chicago looked like during Lincoln’s era, bring classroom studies into focus through a deeper look into Dr. King’s work within the Civil Rights movement, and learn from Muslim Chicagoans sharing their stories of faith, identity and personal journeys.
The first and only African American children’s museum in America, Bronzeville Children’s Museum’s exhibits and galleries highlight African American culture. They remain closed at this time, but we thought they were worth mentioning because they will be a great first-visit once museums open more broadly. The tour-structure vs. open play of this museum will make it very easy to socially distance and attend with small group. During your visit, you'll learn about famous politicians, artists, musicians and athletes that lived in this neighborhood, take part in enriching S.T.E.M. activities, learn about prominent African American inventors and explore why healthy eating is important for families.
Consider making a donation to support their on-going African-American-focused programming and pay them a visit ASAP.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum knows it's tough for kids to be away from school, friends and their normal daily activities. So, they created an email series dedicated to nature and science facts, activities, guiding questions to throw at your kids and more. Subscribe to the newsletterand check out the links on theirwebsite and their YouTube channel for activities, follow them on Instagram to see staff taking care of the animals and follow them on Twitter to hear from their scientists in the field.
Consider making a donationto show your thanks for their work to create content.
Play-based activity is important for children’s development emotionally, physically and mentally and The Children’s Museum in Oaklawn has designed activities and exhibits that engage children in social activity. They remain closed because of COVID restrictions but follow them on Facebook for online learning opportunities.
Instead of their annual Fall Fest, they are hosting a Fall Fun Virtual Walk, Run, Rollfundraiser, Oct. 3-10, that gives families the flexibility to participate whenever and wherever is most convenient. Any donationsare also greatly appreciated!
5100 Museum Dr., Oaklawn, 708-423-6709; Online: cmoaklawn.org
Wonder Works is a great spot to visit for kids ages birth to eight-years-old. It's a shoe-free space with lots to climb, jump and run on and art, performance, design and building are the main objectives here. Kids are encouraged to be creative and let their personalities shine. While they remain closed, they often post content and updates on their Facebook page.
The hands-on nature of this 20,000-square-feet of play space has kept the doors shuttered since COVID shutdowns, with no opening date in the works as of yet. While you can't shake your sillies out inside the museum, they are consistently scheduling creative and re-imagined outdoor events, Parent Playshops that educate adults on the science behind their kid's behaviors, and virtual learning opportunities including their popular Arts & Maker programming that offers after-school stimulation for kids ages 4-12. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to get the latest information on events, activities and updates.
Consider making a donation in appreciation of their ongoing programming.
301 N. Washington St., Naperville, 630-637-8000; Online: dupagechildrens.org
This hidden-gem museum delights kids with hands-on exhibits about light, water, wind and more. While they are closed at this time, they periodically offer activities on theirFacebookand Instagram pages.
Local parents and educators founded KidsWork because they wanted a safe and fun place for kids to come to play and learn. What they’ve found, is that the community as a whole benefits. Kids can roam around the museum’s two floors, discovering science, art and movement exhibits. Highlights include the Pet Vet, Imagination Theater, Art Works, Tot Spot and Light Exhibit.
Good to Know:The Mojo Market is full of fun treasures.
Unless you have a child that loves to read 500-page novels or do quantum physics, chances are your kid runs away from the first sight of a book or even the word “learn.” It can be especially difficult during the summer months when school is out. Add to that a global pandemic with most states still at shelter-in-place orders, spending the day at camps might not work out too well for you.
My son certainly seemed to enjoy school during the school year, but after school campuses were closed and went to online learning, let’s just say that picking up a book to actually read through the contents became nearly non-existent. I could threaten him, cajole him, even bribe him, and any of those might have worked if the school hadn’t been closed since March. But one thing that seemed to have worked (and we’re still going through the possible stage), was getting my son to do research on his favorite topics online. Yes, he’s still staring at a screen, but at least he’s learning some valuable researching skills as well as taking an interest to actually read.
I’ve been working with young children for over 20 years and the one main thing I learned about children is that you can’t really force them to want to learn. Unless they actually enjoy learning, most of the time it’s either required by school or some bribery is involved. Below, I’ve come up with some ideas on how you can foster a love of learning for your children.
1. Expand their interests. Children, even as young as three, will have already developed some kind of interest or affinity. It could be cars, dolls, or gemstones. Find books that share their interests but keep the books below 100 pages. Depending on the age, pick books with pictures to keep the connections fresh in their minds.
2. Give them incentives. There is probably a more proper word than bribery, but giving your child incentives to finish a book can be a positive thing. Money for reading 2 books or extra screen time are great options; you will undoubtedly find something that works for your household.
3. Let them choose the titles. Unless your child is an avid reader, you could just let them choose a couple of books on their own. If bookstores are closed in your area, you can always shop online. When children have control over what they buy, they tend to have more interest.
4. Graphic novels. Graphic novels are no longer a “nerdy” deal. They are filled with interesting stories and drawings that can surely capture any age. Graphic novels are basically stories told through drawings. There are graphic novels for various genres and ages so be sure to start at an early age.
5. Make a list. Have your child help you write down lists. It could be chore lists, grocery lists, or anything that requires jotting down things to accomplish. This helps your child with spelling, organization, and attention to detail.
6. Take nature walks. Being out in nature is a beautiful thing. You and your child can take walks in the park, in the forest, or at the beach (depending on your state). As you are both walking, point out items of interest along the way. If it’s something that you both don’t know about, decide to research it at home.
7. Do a nature hunt. I do this with the environmental program I run at an elementary school. I give the students a list of items that can be found in nature and they check it off the list as they locate them. The list can include a pink flower, a white rock, a squirrel, and anything that will work in your area.
8. Start a subscription box. You know those subscription boxes you see practically everywhere? Some of them are actually pretty cool and entertaining and the ones geared towards children will most definitely involve some learning. Subscription boxes can include STEAM, STEM, and Nature.
9. Write your own story. Writing can be a scary thing for most kids. Heck, it can be tough for adults too! Give your kids the opportunity to create their own stories through words or even drawings. Kids are already pretty creative, so have them start off on an easy topic, like their favorite doll or their favorite stuffed animal, and go from there. Soon, you will have a child that loves to write and create.
10. Participate in book clubs. Yes, there are book clubs for kiddos too! While right now might not be best to meet in person or groups, you can still host book clubs via Zoom or any online host site. Have your kids pick some friends they like to read together and start your little book club!
However you decide to expand your child’s love of learning, small steps are the easiest and less tearful way. Make it fun and challenging, but don’t make it into a chore that they’ll likely oppose.
I am a mom first and foremost. I might not be a supermom, but I am constantly learning and growing.Topics I stand with are parenting, the environment, and living a healthy and happy lifestyle. I work at an elementary school and I have 30 years experience in the health industry.
Are you still reeling from the news that Broadway’s Frozen won’t reopen? If your kids are obsessed with the show or if you have a budding thespian on your hands, the perfect gift is available. Parents who weren’t able to take their kids to see the show before it closed, can now book a virtual meeting, voice lesson or birthday party with the show’s original Anna, Patti Murin.
Murin just started working with Broadway Plus, the VIP service that virtually connects Broadway actors with fans for virtual meet-and-greets, acting and voice lessons, and custom parties. Parents can pick from the company’s roster of 125+ Broadway actors and work directly with the Broadway Plus team to create an unforgettable experience the whole family will love.
If your little one has their heart set on a meet-up with another character from Frozen instead, Broadway Plus has you covered. You can also book a meeting or lesson with the show’s Elsa (Caroline Bowman) and Hans (Austin Colby).
While our favorite playgrounds may still be closed, but there’s plenty of other free ways for kids to have fun at LA’s parks and gardens. Whether you’re looking to take a bike ride or explore a cave, there’s a park that fits the bill. Read on for our list of the best parks for every activity.
If you're up for a little drive, head south to San Pedro's 123-acre park Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center, which offers views of Catalina Island in one direction, and the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountain ranges in the other. Located a short distance from the ocean, the park offers sea breezes and a large grassy bluff, ideal for kite flying.
For a super simple ride, perfect for beginning bikers, check out the 3/4 mile loop at Lacy Park in San Marino. The refurbished wide, paved path that makes a loop around the center of the park is an ideal place to practice brand new bicycle skills. Check out our full list of awesome, car-free bike paths for kids.
Discover the ancient oak trees that abound at Crescenta Valley Community Regional Park in Glendale. The low, thick branches make it easy for little ones to practice their climbing skills safely.
The Arlington Garden in Pasadena offers a drought-tolerant oasis for kids to explore. Here, you'll find a citrus grove, kid-friendly rock maze, a succulent fountain, wishing tree and more. Birds, bees and butterflies all call this garden home and can be seen throughout the year.
There's no better time than now to dine outdoors with the family. For a change of scenery (beyond your backyard), head to one of LA's top secluded picnic spots and enjoy a meal alfresco.
Enter Griffith Park at Canyon Drive and you're a short hike away from the famous Bronson Caves, a must-see for tiny explorers. Go early to beat the crowds (and the heat). For even more cave exploring, check out these beachside grottos.
LA county brings some relief from the heat, opening splash pads and lake beaches around town. (Note: Splash pads at state parks and park operated by the city of Los Angeles and other cities, like Santa Monica and Glendale, remain closed.) See the full list here.
