ML Interest Tag: courtyard

7 Fountains Worth Your Wishes

by Jennifer O'Brien

Summer is winding down and you’ve explored all our best pools, water holes, beaches and splash pads. If you’re looking for a change of pace, branch out and explore the city’s grandest public fountains with your little splashers. And bring plenty of pennies because these fab fountains are definitely worth your wishes.

photo credit: Shelley Z. via Yelp

Best For Bathing Beauties: Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain at Grand Park
In the heart of downtown’s spectacular Grand Park, is a fountain so gloriously fun for tiny tots, they’ll never want to leave. The Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain is a breathtaking site to behold on its own, but what makes this hotspot so enduring to kiddos is the interactive splash pad with alternating jets that beg tikes to wade and frolic until their pruned little piggies can’t take anymore. Kids should definitely bring a change of clothes—they (and in turn, you) will get soaked. Mom and dad will love that the area is clean (even the restrooms), offers plenty of seating and features a Starbucks at the ready. Parking is available in nearby lots, but we suggest saving yourself the headache (and moolah) by taking the Metro Red Line to Civic Center Station.

210 N. Grand Ave.
Downtown
Online: grandparkla.org

photo credit: Christopher R. via Yelp

Best For Wee Ones: Tongva Park Fountain
The fountains and interactive water features at Tonga Park are great for toddlers, there is soft rubbery flooring at the sprayground and loads of things to discover, all of which make this our fave fountain for those under 5. While the fountains aren’t the giant gushers like the others we’ve picked, they’re trickling, cascading and flowing-in other words, perfect for little explorers to see how water works and while the fountains aren’t for playing in, they can get wonderfully wet at the aforementioned sprayground. There are amazing free programs on weekends and you’re steps from the Pier and the beach, making it a destination for a whole day of discovery, even if you don’t happen to live in Santa Monica. Throw in the fact that there are clean bathrooms and it might become your favorite wet spot in the city. Get our inside scoop on exploring the park.

1615 Ocean Ave.
Santa Monica
Online: tongvapark.squarespace.com

photo credit: DaveBloggs007 via Creative Commons

Best Artful Water: Peace on Earth Fountain at The Music Center Plaza
The most photographed piece of public art in Los Angeles (bet you didn’t know that!), the Peace on Earth sculpture by Jacques Lipchitz was erected in 1969 and has become an integral part of downtown’s cultural landscape. Sure, it’s a stunning part of The Music Center courtyard, but what tots really dig is the fountain that surrounds it. 280 water jets burst out of holes in the pavement tiles, double-dog daring kids to get as close as possible to the playful spray. Parking is available in The Music Center Garage or nearby Walt Disney Concert Hall for a fairly hefty fee. Again, the Red Line to Civic Center may be a much more affordable (and better people watching) option. On performance days (and performances of Toyota Symphonies for Youth or World City Music on Saturdays, across the street at the Walt Disney Concert Hall are awesome musical outings for kids), snacks are available in the courtyard shop.

135 N. Grand Ave.
Downtown
Online: musiccenter.org

photo credit: Jennifer O’Brien

Most Historical: William J. Mulholland Memorial Fountain
After your little ones have exhausted the ponies, train, merry-go-round (and you) at Griffith Park, head directly across the street for a beautiful breather at one of LA’s most historic fountains. Recently restored to its former fabulousness, the William J. Mulholland Memorial Fountain (named after the “father of the LA water system,” as Chinatown fans know) is truly one of the most peaceful respites you can find in the city. Surrounded by a lush garden, tikes will love dancing waters that shoot 50 feet in the air every few minutes. It’s also a popular spot for wedding and prom pictures, and seeing grownups in gowns is an extra added treat for princess loving petites. Plenty of seating is available on surrounding benches and offers kiddos a perfect place to catch the water show or even curl up with a good book afterwards. Parking is plentiful in the park’s lot.

Riverside Dr. and Los Feliz Blvd.
Griffith Park

photo credit: Gateway Fanfare Fountains via Facebook

Better (And Closer) Than Vegas: Fanfare Fountains & Water Feature at Gateway Plaza
If you suddenly find yourself in San Pedro one weekend, check out the Port of Los Angeles’ mind-blowing water extravaganza, the Fanfare Fountains at Gateway Plaza. This incredible fountain has a similar look and feel to Vegas’ famous Bellagio fountain with good reason. The exact same company designed both. Fanfare is the largest water feature in California and will impress even the most finicky fountain fans with beautifully choreographed shows set to music as water is propelled 100 feet into the air. Shows are every 10–30 minutes throughout the day. Be sure to double check the schedule for exact times depending on season and time of day. Free one-hour parking is available at the LA Cruise Ship Promenade.

Cruise Ship Terminal Entrance at Harbor Blvd. and Swinford St.
San Pedro
Online: portoflosangeles.org/recreation/fountain

photo credit: Jessica Ritz

Best When It’s Breezy: Echo Park Lake
Some of our favorite fountains you can enjoy casually. This one is best appreciated with a little work. The fountain in the middle of Echo Park Lake shoots geyser-like into the air, and while you could watch it from shore, little daredevils like to get as close as possible to the geyser mist…which means you need to rent a pedal boat. (Rental cost: $5/kid, $10/adult per hour.) Get up as close to the fountains as you like, where the spray will cool you down almost as much at the frozen chocolate dipped bananas you can enjoy back at the boathouse when you are done getting wet. Get our inside scoop on exploring the lake and park at Echo Park Lake.

751 N. Echo Park Ave.
Echo Park
Online: laparks.org/dos/aquatic/facility/echoPkLake.htm

photo credit: Alana M. via Yelp

So Obvious You Forgot About It: The Grove
This almost seems too evident to mention, but for that very reason, it belongs on the list. It’s not the biggest, or the wettest or the most historic. But for small fry and tired parents, it may be the easiest and most relaxing fountain that’s still awe inspiring for littles. Located right next to a big green space for running around, with a bridge perfect for pitching pennies, and next to the statues of a lemonade stand and hose (that sometimes spouts water, so they can get wet) and filled with koi, this fountain was also built by the Bellagio fountain designers and “dances” every hour to songs by Dean Martin, Kool and the Gang, Lionel Richie and others. The water spurts 60 ft. up and at night the accompanying lights dazzle tots. Not to mention, you can stock up at BabyGap, Splendid and Janie & Jack at the shops and reward their good shopping behavior with fountain watching, trolley riding and ice cream. Manufactured? You bet, but that doesn’t detract from the convenience or awe at all.

189 The Grove Dr.
Mid-City
Online: thegrovela.com

Note: Due to drought conditions, any of these fountains could be turned off for a short period.  As of August, 2015, all are currently still spouting (using recycled water) with the exception of the Mulholland Memorial Fountain, which is temporarily shut off for the peak heat of summer.

What are your family’s favorite fountains around town? We’d love to hear!

—Jennifer O’Brien

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Explore an Urban Refuge in the Heart of Bellevue

by Myriam Gabriel-Pollock

If you are looking for a break from the loud playgrounds and busy water parks, the Bellevue Botanical Garden may offer up the mellower respite you desire. With its 53-acres of cultivated gardens, restored woodlands, and natural wetlands, little explorers will have plenty to discover and enjoy. And with a new Visitor Center, this beautiful, serene experience can be an educational one too.

Where to Start?
Begin your visit at the Visitor Center, with its interactive displays, Education Center, and courtyard gardens. You may even want to pop into the Trillium Store, filled to the brim with garden-themed gifts and keepsakes, including a cool selection of kids’ books, toys, and gardening tools.

Be sure to pick up the “Stop! Look! Listen! A Treasure Hunt for Children” pamphlet, a fun and easy activity for kids to help them explore the vast gardens and find special hidden surprises. Can you find the stone lanterns? How about the baby tree growing on a tree? What sounds can you hear in the Garden?

Which Trail to Choose?
Depending on how much you and your crew feel like walking, you could stick to the inner Garden loops, which wind through several picturesque, smaller gardens and structures, or go big and do the half-mile Tateuchi Loop Trail, which covers the perimeter of the entire property, as well as the smaller ones within. Psst! The trails are all either paved or gravel-covered, so you’ll definitely want to wear comfy walking shoes.

Not to Miss
See the Rock Garden’s wildflowers and the native plants at the Nature Discovery Gardens, go over the awesome suspension bridge at the Ravine Experience, and enter the traditional Japanese gate into the Yao Garden, which honors the sister city relationship between Bellevue and Yao, Japan.

Learning in the Garden
This is the Eastside after all, so the Garden has an interactive aspect! Your little horticulturist might find it pretty cool to use a mobile device to “tap or scan” the markers throughout the Garden, and learn more details about the plants.

Take a Load Off
Need some down time for a snack or picnic lunch? The Garden has a courtyard with tables and chairs, a pretty lawn, as well as many benches in hidden little coves, that are perfect for whatever yummy food you’ve brought with you. And no worries about restrooms — the Visitor Center has a large, modern facility.

Good to Know:
Every Saturday and Sunday (through October), you can take the fam on a guided tour through the Garden and delight your senses with its ever-changing colors, fragrances, and textures. If you’re expecting out-of-town guests, you can also arrange a free guided tour of the Garden for your group. Weekend tours start at 2 p.m. Who knows… your kiddo may even happen upon a gnome’s house!

Bellevue Botanical Garden
12001 Main St.
Bellevue, Wa 98005
425-452-2750
Online: bellevuebotanical.org

Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk; Visitor Center open 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: Free. Check online for classes, lectures, and events; some may require registration and/or a fee.

Mark your calendars: The Bellevue Botanical Garden is home to Garden d’Lights during the holiday season. This blossoming, winter wonderland is a must-see for kids and parents alike.

Have you been to the Bellevue Botanical Garden? Share your experience in the Comments.

– Myriam Gabriel-Pollock

Photos by MGPollock

 

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Going Back to School Has Never Been Sweeter

by liz overson

School is back in session, but we promise this isn’t your normal K-8 classroom. It’s the Kennedy School, and for those of you who haven’t been to the Kennedy School in awhile or maybe ever…carpe diem. The elementary-school-turned-indoor-playground is filled with hotel rooms, restaurants, bars, a brewery, movie theater and a live music venue. There is literally something for everybody and it’s all cozily enclosed under one large and very dry roof. Heads up social calendar coordinator of out-of-town peeps; their new English Wing of twenty-two local author-themed guest rooms with king sized beds and private baths just opened to the public at the end of 2012.

Don’t Skip This School
Let’s start with the movies. These matinees are designed for moms, dads, nannies and grandfolks to bring the kiddos. No one will flinch if the wee ones cry, run, snack or jump. The movies are second run (out of theaters and likely soon to be released on dvd) and uber-reasonably priced. The theater is the school’s former auditorium, it’s large and open so you really can keep an eye on your minis, while also sitting on a comfy couch or arm chair. And if that’s not enough, the Theater Bar sells delicious nibbles that are delivered to your seat. It’s fantastic. Period.

The soaking pool is an outdoor gem in an interior courtyard. Surrounded by lush gardens, this ceramic work of art is sure to delight you and your minis. There is a small locker room with two private changing areas for a quick bathing suit switcheroo. Then head outside and get your warm water soak on. You’ll love the underwater tiled bench all along the perimeter of the pool. It’s ideal for relaxing and/or keeping your littlest ones close. Having absolutely no chlorine – just warm, steamy salt water galore – you’re afloat with the greatest of ease.

Hungry? The Courtyard restaurant is large and sunny (if it’s sunny outside). The light fixtures are worth a moment’s pause for their beauty and the outdoor fireplace is a splendid mosaic of tiles. Pretty and cozy…what else do you need? Oh yeah, food. Prepare for the usual McMenamin’s fare…tater tots for all! Burgers, pizza, salads, sammies, their McMenamin’s beers and wines round out the pub grub. Full bar, too.

Or for an imaginary vacation during lunch/dinner have your vittles in the Cypress Room. They play reggae, push island-inspired specials, roll concert clips and love the rum, mon. The pipe sculpture is neither subtle nor unimpressive. If it’s warm sit outside on the back patio among the vines. Kids welcome until 10:00 pm

Catch The Bus: Thing to Know Before You Go
Mommy & Me Matinees run Tuesday – Thursday around 2:30 pm and cost $3 per person. If your kids are young and fidgety, bring toys or books to help keep them occupied. A big bag of popcorn (available at the theater) also helps. Family matinees run Friday through Monday and are the first two showings of the day. Tix are still $3 each and should be age appropriate for little scholars.

The soaking pool is open 10:00 am – 8:00 pm everyday for non-hotel guests, and costs $5 per person. Pay at the front desk on your way in and bring your own towels. If you’re there in the evening you can grab a cocktail in the Honors Bar on your way out to the water. They’ll provide the plastic cup. Oh yeah.

The Courtyard Restaurant is open for three square meals a day plus Happy Hour. Grilled cheese, burgers, pizzas and corn dogs feed the little buckaroos. Breakie of granola, eggs or French toast can start any day off right, morning glories. If it’s crowded/busy, it can be slooooow going getting your meals. Bringing snacks and entertainment is never a bad idea. Switching lunches can be pretty rad, too.

Not All Who Wander Are Lost
The Boiler Room Bar was once (wait for it) the boiler room. It is a destination in and of itself, but the ginger snaps are not welcome. If you can shimmy in for a drink or some down time sans le bebes, check out the two-floor space full of deconstructed radiators, pipes and other metal work, play a little shuffleboard, shoot some stick and crank the tunes via jukebox. They serve pub grub and a bar full o’ booze as well.

If you like bourbon, single malts, cigars, cigar smoke and being amongst adults only – make your way to the Detention Bar.  It is small in size yet large in living. And just as you’d imagine by the name, this bar just begs for bad behavior. So go ahead and buy a stogie.  And take a cab home. And sleep on the couch.

Rock ‘N Roll K School
Thursday night meet Family Frolic. Family Frolic meet Portland families ready to get out and down. Make your way to what was once the gym (aptly named the Gymnasium currently) for bands of many genres changing weekly – honky tonk, bluegrass, 80s, country, singer songwriters, kindie rock faves like Professor Banjo among others. Shows start at either 6:00 pm or 7:00 pm and are FREE. There is a bar in the back of the room, lest you walk too far.

Passing Notes in the Hall: The Inside Dish
It can get hot in the gym when everyone has their boogie on. Leave your coats in the car. Or in a heap in the corner, you pick. Hotel guests can bring their pets for an additional $15 tacked on to the room rate and use the soaking pool anytime (another coupla selling points for your visiting BFFs). If the hotel is booked with wedding guests or a family reunion, the pool may feel tight if the guests all head for a plunge at the same time. Neighbors who live between NE 22nd and NE 42nd and NE Prescott and NE Columbia swim for free, but be sure your license has your accurate address for proof. Last but oh so far from least, you lucky duck you. Go ahead and buy McMenamin’s beers to go or ship ‘em anywhere within Oregon.

Be True to Your School
There is much to see here at the Kennedy School. Try to budget in some roaming time and check out alumni photos, posters for shows upcoming or past, or make a day of it at one of their holiday events – like the kid-heavy merriment on May Day, the St Patty’s Day family-friendly music fest or indoor trick or treating on Halloween that starts nice and early at 5:00 pm rain or shine, it’s cool to love your Kennedy school. And walking around with a libation in hand and your munchkins happily meandering along checking out the sights and stories lining the walls is nothing short of old school satisfying.

The Kennedy School
5736 NE 33rd
Portland, Or  97211

Have you visited the Kennedy School Recently? Tell us about your experience in the comment section below. 

— Liz Overson

Thanks for the photos, Kennedy School!

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