Ask the kids if they want to go shopping for vegan cheese and heirloom melons, and you’ll likely get a resounding no. But mention the prospect of baby goats, a bounce house or, say, a camel ride, and your little ones will be all in. Those are just a few of the activities offered at LA’s best kid-friendly farmers markets. While you stock up on produce and more, your tots can take advantage of the fun activities at these markets around town.
This Sunday morning farmers market is a San Fernando Valley favorite—and is usually bustling by 9:30a.m., so arrive early to beat the crowds. In addition to all the usual staples (like fresh produce, local seafood and meats, and fresh-baked goodies), the Studio City venue features a kids' play area with multiple bounce houses and inflatable slides, a rock climbing wall, face painting, swings, and more. Hit the kid’s activities first, then you can fuel up courtesy of the dozens of prepared food stands offering avocado toasts (with assorted toppings), wood-fired pizza, fresh-pressed juices, and snow cones (which may be required to lure little ones from the bounce houses). In addition to nearby street parking, there's also free parking is available at the CBS parking structure around the corner.
This sprawling market, which stretches along Ivar and Selma between Hollywood and Sunset, plays host to more than 150 vendors. With an eclectic mix of hot foods (everything from Middle Eastern kabobs to Thai coconut cakes) and exotic produce, it's the perfect place to expand your little one's palate. In addition to jamming out to live music, kids can also check out the recently opened Community on Cosmo space, where you may find an arts and crafts activity or a cooking demo. But the highlight of the trip is no doubt a visit to Soledad Goats. The Mojave-based animal sanctuary often brings along a "kid" or two for your own kids to meet. Parking is available at the Sunset and Vine parking structure for $5.
Sun., 8a.m.-1p.m. Hollywood Blvd. and Ivar Ave. Hollywood Online: hfm.la
With a solid selection of produce, specialty foods (like plant-based "raw" cheese and traditional rice balls) and hot eats, there's plenty for your little foodies to nosh on. To keep everyone entertained, each week the market features a different DJ, along with a free kids craft workshop. On the last Sunday of every month, there's also face painting plus a cooking class, where little ones will use fresh market ingredients to create a tasty dish. Metered street parking is available along Venice Blvd.
We're pretty sure this is one of the few LA farmers markets offering camel rides along with the usual suspects: pony rides, a petting zoo, inflatable slides and bounce houses. The event happens every Friday evening in charming Old Town Monrovia, just east of Pasadena off the 210 (for newbies to the area). What's more, on the first Fridays of each month, it's officially Kid's Night, which means even more entertainment for tykes.
Fri., 5p.m.-9p.m. 612 S. Myrtle Ave. Monrovia Online: cityofmonrovia.org
The KidZone at this market offers story time hosted by the Beverly Hills Public Library (one of the best libraries for little ones). There's also a petting zoo (complete with goats, bunnies, adorable piglets and more) and a pony ride for the more adventurous—pint-sized riders can enjoy a real trot along the street. Throughout the year, the market also hosts themed events with crafts and activities—everything from pie-eating contest in June (aka Pie Month at the market) to pumpkin decorating in the fall. Parking is free for two hours at the Civic Center parking structure.
Santa Monica is home to multiple markets throughout the week, but Sunday's Main St. offering earns marks for being intimate and geared towards little ones. There's live music with local bands that will have your mini music lovers grooving. There’s also a face-painter and balloon artist to keep your tots entertained. While the produce section isn’t huge, you can always stock up on kid-pleasers like strawberries and cucumbers, plus there are tons of delicious hot foods to choose from. Metered street parking is available but tough to come by, so expect to walk a bit from your spot. If you live close enough, you can bike there and park your wheels at the bike valet out front. Make a day of it and cruise down to the beach bike path, just two blocks away, after your shop and eat.
Sun., 8:30a.m.-1:30p.m. 2640 Main St. (in Heritage Square) Santa Monica Online: smgov.net/farmersmarket
New York isn’t all skyscrapers and concrete jungle. In fact, just across the Hudson River from the Big Apple lies an opportunity to explore the state’s natural scenic beauty, coolest historical landmarks, and culinary delights without the big-city hustle and bustle. If a family vacation to New York is on your clan’s travel bucket list, Dutchess County offers the perfect introduction to the Empire State.
Easily accessible by car, train, boat and air; Dutchess County is home to the cities of Poughkeepsie, Beacon, Amenia, Fishkill and others. The area is packed with opportunities to walk through history, indulge in outdoor recreation, check out art and so much more.
photo: Dutchess Tourism
Walk through History The history buffs in the family can get their fix visiting and touring historical landmarks from various eras located in the area. The biggest challenge you will face is deciding where to start and which locations to fit in. There are five historic Great Estates that give your family the opportunity to step back in time and take a walk through the past. They include Franklin D. Roosevelt home, Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, Locust Grove Estate and Mount Gulian Historic Site. Each of them offer a combination of tours, galleries, hikes and programs that everyone can enjoy.
Add a little thrill to your historical experience with the Haunted History trail. The trail passes through Dutchess County and includes stops at places like Miss Fanny’s Victorian Party House and Wing’s Castle, both of which are believed to be haunted and offer ghost tours for the brave.
photo: via The Old Rhinebeck
Hit Local Museums Tiny tots in need of play time will love the Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum where two stories worth of hands-on play exhibits are housed. Highlights include The Children’s Garden, The Science Center’s Wonder Dome and RiverTown—an exhibit area infused with a whole lot of local flavor.
The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum is packed with antique aircrafts that thrill both young and older aviation fanatics. Along with featuring over 60 vintage aircrafts, antique automobiles and motorcycle, this cool spot hosts airshows! So keep an eye on their website for dates and times.
Art enthusiasts must hit the Dia, located in Beacon. There you will enjoy rotating temporary exhibitions along with a display of art from the 60s and 70s. This gallery is favored by New York City’s residents who regularly take the train from city to gallery just to delight in its artwork.
photo: Fred Schaeffer
Get Outside Dutchess County is located in the stunning Hudson Valley landscape where visitors enjoy endless outdoor recreation options. For an unforgettable hike, strap on your hiking boots and head to Beacon Mountain where you’ll find an epic trek that offers big payoffs. This 2.4-mile up and back hike is appropriate for families with hiking experience. It has a well-maintained trail system that takes you by several scenic lookouts. Once you reach the top, you are in for some epic views of the valley and the river. There’s even a fire tower hikers can ascend to get a better look. Don’t be fooled, the experience is not stroll through a park. There are lots of switchbacks (and some stairs). But the work is totally worth it.
If your youngest hikers aren’t quite up for scaling the mountain, no problem, the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is a great alternative or addition. The path was once a railroad bridge that was built in 1888. Now a walkway suitable for people of all ages, it stretches 1.26 miles over the Hudson River connecting Poughkeepsie (on the east side of the river) to Highland (on the west side). Stroller friendly, families with young children can take in fantastic views of the dazzling Hudson while taking their time crossing the waters.
With the Hudson River running right through the county, there are plenty of options for family waterplay. Little swimmers will get a kick out of the River Pool at Beacon, which is an environmentally friendly partially submerged pool in the Hudson River. It has a permeable floor and sides that create a fence under the water so river water runs through it and little ones get the thrill of swimming in the great Hudson (safely).
Eat, drink and play at Four Brothers Drive In Theater where you get a taste of the old-school drive-in, but with extra-cool, contemporary flair. Four Brothers doesn’t just offer great bites like burgers, hot dogs and floats with a flick. They provide a next-level family-experience with extras like an onsite petting zoo, hot air balloon rides, face painting and more. And if you get too tired to drive home, you can camp on their property or rent their air stream trailer for the night.
With the Culinary Institute of America located in Dutchess County, you can expect to enjoy some of the best cuisine you’ve ever tasted at local restaurants. For a farm to table dining experience, the Troutbeck in Amenia offers an elevated, but cozy, experience. Breakfast includes fresh-pressed juice and kids and parents alike will melt over the blueberry pancakes. The dinner menu boasts specials like Duck Confit and Black Trumpet Fettuccine. Every dish is delectable and suited for even the pickiest of foodies. For a quick morning bite, hit Café 40 & Co in Poughkeepsie where you can grab an incredible espresso or cup of tea, as well as a bagel, muffin or pick from an array of pastries you can either sit down to eat or take with you to go.
For lunch, head to Lolita’s Pizza in Poughkeepsie where you can nosh on Neapolitan Pizza and pasta. The Short Rib Gnocchi is literally to die for. Baja 328 is Another great lunch or dinner spot. This Southwest grill features mouth-watering fare with dishes that include Seafood Ceviche, Pork Carnitas, Market Fish and tamales. If you are in Beacon, The Roundhouse serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a beautifully appointed space where you can dine on everything from Brioche French Toast Pain Perdu to a burger to Grass Fed Ribeye.
Stay
Dutchess County may not be home to the big city, but your choice in accommodations does not suffer. Located in Amenia, you’ll find the Troutbeck, which was once a private estate and the favored retreat for likes of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Thoreau, Twain, Hemingway, Roosevelt and the giants of the Civil Rights movement. This recently renovated manor house is located on 45 private acres of land where the kids can run and play. Here you will find a babbling creek to relax by along with a walled garden, an area to play games like pool, and a beautiful sitting area with a roaring fireplace. The rooms are quaint and comfy and there is onsite dining and bikes you can check out to explore. A stay at this historical spot gives you an opportunity to experience what it was like to live during a more romantic point in time.
Beacon is home the Roundhouse, another historic building that was transformed into a beautiful, modern boutique hotel. Overlooking a rushing creak that flows into a stunning waterfall, the location is perfect if you desire walkability. It’s located steps away from the Beacon town center where you’ll find plenty of shopping and entertainment. The Roundhouse features well-appointed rooms and onsite dining along with a cozy sitting area where you can relax and chat while enjoying a cocktail.
A weekend or week long escape to Dutchess County, New York gives families an opportunity to see a side of New York that is shockingly underrepresented. Along with getting a good dose of history, you are guaranteed to bond over thrilling and inspiring outings and activities. You’ll end your vacation ready to come back for more.
With Halloween sneaking up on us, pumpkin season is officially here. We’ve rounded up a list of the very best pumpkin patches in every state so you can snag your perfect future jack-o-lantern. Most of these spots offer fun extras, from hayrides and corn mazes to petting zoos and apple donuts. Just read on to let the autumnal fun begin.
Alabama: 4D Farm, Cullman This fun farm is a perennial family favorite. After picking out your pumpkin, you can venture through the corn maze, go for a ride on the cow train, take on a low ropes obstacle course and more.
Alaska: Reindeer Farm, Palmer This beautifully maintained farm is a great spot to visit any time you’re in Alaska, but it’s especially festive during the fall harvest season. You’ll get to see reindeer and elk, go on pony rides and of course pick out the perfect pumpkin.
Arizona: MacDonald’s Ranch, Scottsdale MacDonald’s Ranch is a horseback riding stable, and in the fall it offers an out-of-this-world pumpkin patch. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to pet animals, pan for gold, explore a hay maze and play a bunch of old-timey games, in addition to shopping locally grown pumpkins.
Arkansas: Motley’s Pumpkin Patch, Little Rock At Motley’s Pumpkin Patch, you can pick your own pumpkins right off the vine, then stick around to go on tractor rides, climb hay bales and watch pig races. What a day!
California: Underwood Family Farms, Moorpark Pumpkins get magical with fairytale-like names at Underwood Family Farms (Magic Lanterns, Aladdins, Cinderellas, Big Macs, Jack be Littles, etc.), and it’s a guaranteed good time with the chicken shows, labyrinths, tractor rides and more to keep your pumpkin pickers engaged. Click here for the full list of the best pumpkin patches in and around Los Angeles, or click here for the top spots in San Diego. If you’re in the Bay Area, click here to find a patch closer to home.
Colorado: Diana’s Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze, Canon City You’ll have the perfect fall day at Diana’s Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze. The corn maze gets a new theme every year (this year’s is Mario Bros.) and takes you on an exciting scavenger hunt. Top off your visit by picking out the perfect pumpkin.
Connecticut: Jones Family Farms, Shelton With 25 acres of pumpkin patches, it’s safe to say you’ll find one you like at Jones Family Farms. Catch a hayride with your crew to pick your pumpkin straight off the vine.
Delaware: Fifer Orchards, Camden-Wyoming Fall wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Fifer Orchards. Every Saturday you can head to their Fall Fest to pick pumpkins, explore the corn maze, take a tour of the farm and play kid-friendly games.
1919 Allabands Mill Rd. Camden-Wyoming, DE Online: fiferorchards.com
Florida: Sweetfields Farm, Masaryktown This family-owned farm is totally worth the visit, with a five-acre corn maze, face painting and fresh-pressed apple cider in addition to an impressive pumpkin patch.
Georgia: Ole McDermitt’s Farm, Carrollton The time for pickin’ is now at Ole McDermitt’s Farm. Don’t forget to bring the camera because you’ll want to snap a pic of your cutie navigating the mini maze, shouting at the duck races and posing at the scarecrow dress-up station. For more awesome Atlanta picks where you can pick up some delicious jam or visit a petting zoo, click here.
Hawaii: Kula Country Farms, Kula Whether you’re a local or find yourself vacationing on Maui in October, Kula Country Farms is well worth a visit. Pick your own pumpkin, explore the kids’ garden, meet farm animals and get lost in the corn maze.
Idaho: Linder Farms, Meridian Make a day of it at Linder Farms—there’s a ton to do in addition to picking your pumpkin, from hayrides to a petting zoo to a corn box (think a massive sandbox filled with dried corn instead of sand).
Illinois: Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch, Hampshire Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch is Chicago’s end-all-be-all for everything exciting when it comes to pumpkin picking. Don’t miss out on the mechanical pumpkin eating dinosaur and the furry residents of Bunny Town! We’ve also covered many other amazing pumpkin patches around Chicago—click here to see them all.
Indiana: Beasley’s Orchard, Danville Hop on a hayride to take a tour of Beasley’s Orchard and pick out the perfect pumpkin. Be sure to stop by their store, where you can get an apple cider slushie, a hand-dipped caramel apple and locally made jams and jellies.
Iowa: Colony Pumpkin Patch, North Liberty At Colony Pumpkin Patch you can shop a great selection of carving and decorative pumpkins, explore a five-acre corn maze and participate in lots of kid-friendly activities. Sign us up!
Kansas: Schaake’s Pumpkin Patch, Lawrence A local favorite, this family-owned and operated farm is well worth a visit. Go on a hayride to pick your pumpkin, then meet farm animals and wander through the hay maze.
Kentucky: Devine’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch, Harrodsburg In addition to pumpkin picking, at this fun spot, you can get lost in a big corn maze, go on wagon rides, pet critters, zoom down a giant slide and more.
Louisiana: Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch, Hammond This gem is way more than a pumpkin patch—kids will have the opportunity to learn how pumpkins grow, weigh and measure their pumpkin, milk a cow and go for a scenic walk on a nature trail.
Maine: Treworgy Family Orchards, Levant With more than 60 varieties of pumpkins, squash and gourds, it’s safe to say you’ll find the perfect one for you at Treworgy Family Orchards. After you’re done with that, visit the barn to pet goats and grab a batch of apple cider donuts from the cafe.
Maryland: Larriland Farm, Woodbine Thinking of throwing a fall birthday bash? Larriland Farm is the place to go for a deluxe hayride where your crew gets to pluck their favorite pumpkin as a party favor.
Massachusetts: Sauchuk’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch, Plympton It doesn’t get much more autumnal than this—go on a hayride to the pumpkin patch, get lost in a corn maze and even play a game of tug of war. When you’re all tired out, fuel up with delicious cider donuts.
Michigan: Johnson’s Giant Pumpkins, Saginaw This family-favorite spot is way more than just a pumpkin patch. You’ll have the chance to meet and pet critters, ride horses and even watch a trebuchet launch pumpkins into the sky.
Minnesota: Lendt’s Pumpkin Patch, Wyoming You’re sure to find an awesome pumpkin in the 40+ acres of Lendt’s Pumpkin Patch. Hop on a hayride to learn all about pumpkins while you’re there—you can even reserve a private ride for groups of 15 or more.
Mississippi: Mitchell Farms, Collins Mitchell Farms has been growing peanuts for over 30 years, but in the fall they also offer a great crop of pumpkins and lots of family fun. While you’re there, be sure to go on a wagon ride tour, explore the corn maze and check out the sunflower field.
Missouri: Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch, Kearney Make a day of it at Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch. They’ve got a great selection of pumpkins, a big corn maze and kids’ activities like rubber duck races and a barrel train.
Montana: Sweet Pickins’ Pumpkin Patch, Kalispell You’re sure to have an amazing day at Sweet Pickins’ Pumpkin Patch. Go on a tractor tour of the farm, pick your perfect pumpkin and go for a spin on their giant jumping pillow—and don’t forget to try their famous kettle corn, too!
Nebraska: Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, Gretna With over 50 attractions, you can easily spend the whole day exploring Vala’s Pumpkin Patch. From old-fashioned hayrack rides to kid-friendly play areas and awesome photo ops, there’s something for everyone.
Nevada: Gilcrease Orchard, Las Vegas The idea of an orchard in the middle of the desert might sound crazy, but Gilcrease Orchard is an awesome spot. We recommend heading there early in the morning to beat the heat and the crowds. Go on a hayride, pick the perfect pumpkin and grab a jug of their famous home-grown apple cider.
New Hampshire: Moulton Farm, Meredith Your whole crew will have a blast visiting Moulton Farm. Take a tractor ride to pick your own pumpkin right from the field, then get lost in the corn maze. Don’t forget to grab some apple cider donuts, too!
New Jersey: Duffield’s Farm Market, Sewell This family-owned and operated gem is a must-visit spot during the fall. Go on a hayride, pick the perfect pumpkin and nosh on a warm apple cider donut from their bakery.
New Mexico: Mesilla Valley Maze, Las Cruces With more than 30 activities included in the cost of admission, it’s safe to say your whole crew will be entertained at the Mesilla Valley Maze. They’ve got a great selection of pumpkins, a five-acre corn maze, giant slides, rubber duck races and more.
New York: Outhouse Orchards, North Salem Get personal and local with Outhouse Orchards, a family owned and operated farm in Westchester County. Not only can your lil’ gourd-ians nab a pumpkin, but they can fill their bag with apples, too. If Westchester is too far, don’t fret: Our New York pumpkin list has options much closer than that. Click here for the rundown of the best pumpkin patches from Queens to Dutchess County.
North Carolina: Vollmer Farm, Bunn A fifth-generation working family farm, Vollmer Farm is totally worth a visit. Pick out your pumpkins, meet farm animals and make your way through their corn maze. On Saturday nights, you can settle in to watch a movie projected on the side of the barn.
North Dakota: Papa’s Pumpkin Patch, Bismarck Your whole crew will love paying a visit to Papa’s Pumpkin Patch. Explore larger-than-life mazes made out of straw bales, go on a scenic walk on a nature trail, zoom down mini zip lines and (of course) find the perfect pumpkin.
Ohio: Shaw Farms Produce & Pumpkins, Milford Enjoy a festive day at Shaw Farms Produce & Pumpkins. After you’ve picked out a pumpkin, you can snap photos with their plump pumpkin people, put your navigation skills to the test in the corn maze and go on a horse-drawn hayride.
Oklahoma: Pumpkin Town Farms, Tulsa You’ll find pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and colors to pick from at Pumpkin Town Farms. Be sure to also check out their corn maze, petting zoo and kid-friendly activities and games.
Oregon: Bauman’s Farm and Garden, Gervais Rain or shine, most of Bauman’s Farm and Garden is undercover, which makes it the ideal Portland patch. Your active tot will have plenty to do besides finding his fave jack-o-lantern. There’s zip-lining, tire pyramids, jumping pillows and more. Want to read more about Portland’s other equally amazing patches? (Some have exotic animals like a baby tiger or pygmy porcupine!) Then check out these nine patches that you’d be out of your gourd to miss.
12989 Howell Prairie Rd. NE Gervais, OR Online: baumanfarms.com
Pennsylvania: Maize Quest Fun Park, New Park Hop aboard the Pumpkin Express wagon to find the perfect pumpkin at this family-friendly spot. Be sure to stick around to get lost in the corn maze, zoom down a big slide and mine for gems.
Rhode Island: Salisbury Farm, Johnston Hop on a hayride to the pumpkin patch at Salisbury Farm, where you’ll find a great selection of future jack-o-lanterns. You can also explore their giant corn maze, stock up on fresh fruits and veggies and get a tour of the farm.
South Carolina: Bush-N-Vine Farm, York Your whole crew will have a blast at Bush-N-Vine Farm. Pick your own pumpkins, jump around in a bounce house, listen to live music and play games like cornhole.
South Dakota: Spearfish Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch, Spearfish At this family-friendly spot, you can make your way through the big corn maze, then pick out your perfect pumpkin. There are also plenty of kid-approved activities like a hay slide, a tire climb and a petting zoo.
Tennessee: Lucky Ladd Farms, Eagleville Lucky Ladd Farms is well worth a visit, whether you’re keen on picking pumpkins, exploring a corn maze or chowing down on caramel apples. There’s also a petting zoo with cows, goats, sheep, llamas, alpacas and chickens.
Texas: Hall’s Pumpkin Farm, Grapevine You’re sure to have an amazing time at Hall’s Pumpkin Farm—they’ve got pumpkins and gourds of all shapes and sizes, a fun corn maze to get lost in, plus hayrides pulled by genuine farm tractors.
Utah: Jaker’s Jack-O-Lanterns, Springville At Jaker’s Jack-O-Lanterns, you can hop aboard a hayride, meet animals in a petting zoo, make your way through the corn maze, play in their big corn pit and zoom down huge slides. Oh, and there are plenty of pumpkins, too!
Vermont: Whitcomb’s Land of Pumpkins and Corn Maze, Williston You and your little ghouls will have a blast at Whitcomb’s Land of Pumpkins. Stock up on different types of pumpkins, gourds and squash, and don’t forget to tackle their impressive four-acre corn maze.
Virginia: Hunt Club Farm, Virginia Beach Kick off your Halloween festivities with a visit to Hunt Club Farm, home to Virginia Beach’s biggest pumpkin patch. They’ve also got hayrides, a petting farm and carnival rides.
2388 London Bridge Rd. Virginia Beach, VA Online: huntclubfarm.com
Washington: Craven Farm, Snohomish With a 20-acre pumpkin patch (and more than 30 varieties of pumpkins), a 15-acre Alice-in-Pumpkin Land-themed corn maze, hayrides, storytelling, a pumpkin slinger, petting zoo and donut and espresso bar, this farm covers all the bases. Little ones will especially love the non-scary “I Spy Barn,” the hayride to Minionville and all the fun harvest decorations around the farm. Click here to see our other must-visit pumpkin patches in the Seattle area.
13817 Shorts School Road Snohomish, WA Online: cravenfarm.com
West Virginia: Old McDonald’s Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze, Inwood This family-owned farm is a must-visit during the fall. In addition to picking out pumpkins, you can wander through a corn maze, see farm animals, zoom down mega slides and relax in the picnic area.
Wisconsin: Treinen Farm, Lodi Learn all about the farm as you take a hayride to Treinen Farm’s pumpkin patch, then pick your favorite from over 15 varieties. Don’t forget to visit the corn maze, too—at 15 acres, it’s filled with more than six miles of twists and turns.
Wyoming: Ellis Harvest Home, Lingle At Ellis Harvest Home, you’ll have the chance to pick your own pumpkins, play in a corn box (it’s like a sandbox with corn instead of sand), shoot a tomato launcher and explore the corn maze. Refuel with a delish plate of apple nachos or a cup of hot cocoa.
Let’s be honest. When it comes to family travel, most of us don’t allow ourselves the brain space to imagine five-star accommodations with equally stellar dining options. Grand Velas Los Cabo, located just 20 minutes north of the destination beach town of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico has set out to change all of that. The luxury all-inclusive resort’s best feature? Their attention to detail—especially when it comes to those with kids (whether they are newborns or teenagers). Scroll through for all their amazing amenities and don’t blame us if you never look at travel the same way again.
A Grand Welcome
Andie Huber
There's good reason that most of Cabo's visitors are from California. If you haven't ever been, imagine just a 2-hour flight from Los Angeles and then a 30-minute drive from the airport that sets you up for the easiest, most paradise-esque vacation you can imagine—all without worrying about a single dollar or peso.
The welcoming site of the open-air lobby at Grand Velas Los Cabo is, without a doubt, a spectacular one. As you walk through the breezy atrium, you are greeted by the super friendly hotel staff, invited to sit on the balcony to take in the resort and the stunning ocean view. And if that's not enough, you are handed a cold, fruit-y flavored drink in a cold Moscow Mule mug and are given a mini head and shoulder massage compliments of the spa. Talk about starting off on the right foot!
Grand Ocean Views
Andie Huber
The resort was built and designed so that every single room gets an ocean view. That's right—you won't ever book a room here and get stuck in the back or face the highway. Every morning you'll be greeted by the rising sun (if you don't pull the shades) and every evening you be treated to a stunning sunset. Not to mention, a relaxing soundtrack of crashing waves every time you step outside your room.
Insider Tip:Two-bedroom family suites are available and include stuffed animals and mini-robes for the kids.
Teen's Turf
Andie Huber
Oh to be a teenager! Or better yet, have your teen appreciate the hotel as much as you do! The resort's Teen Club is an exclusive space (must be between the ages of 13 and 18) where they have access to so many entertainment options, you may only see them at bedtime or breakfast. The ocean-view space has X- Box Kinect, pool table, air hockey, ping-pong, foosball, a karaoke set with illuminated dance floor to name a few. There are also clever individual cubicles with video game systems (so cozy!) that are a gamer's dream come true. The lounge offers mocktails, drinks and snacks to enjoy while hanging-out with world-class street art that was created just for this resort.
Grand Moments
Andie Huber
Quiet little moments like these are found all over the resort that are appreciated by everyone no matter what their age.
Breakfast Buffet
Andie Huber
While you can order breakfast in bed, take a stroll to Azul restaurant where they offer a breakfast buffet that will please even the pickiest of eaters. For the kids, there are donuts, pastries, cereals, fruit, smoothies, yogurt and more to choose from while the adults can mix up their own Bloody Marys, customize their omelettes or start the day off with fresh-pressed juices.
The interior has a casual, laid-back, beach-y feel with decorative ropes sprinkled throughout but we recommend trying to snag a seat outside where you can watch the waves crash. Also keep an eye out for migrating dolphins and whales making their way through the Pacific! A grassy area just off the patio gives kids the space to run and play while you take in the view.
Say Spa
Andie Huber
Check those kids into the kid's club and head to the spa, located on the ground level near the gym, where a variety of massages and services (everything from a barber shop to meditative flower arranging) can be arranged. The real scene-stealer though is the lead-up to the signature Agave massage. In case you didn't know, the Agave plant is responsible for all that lovely Tequila that gets produced in Mexico. A truly beautiful plant indeed.
Before the massage begins, you have the opportunity to explore the ceremonial water room where a large pool with a series of jets in varying intensities to work out those knots in your back, shoulders and neck. Stay as little or as long as you like at each water feature. At the end, there is a cold plunge pool to wake up your senses (not mandatory). After you are finished, wrap up in a towel and grab a lounger. The stage is set for ultimate relaxation.
Post massage, you are taken into another series of rooms where you rotate through seven more water features like a eucalyptus-scented steam room, an aromatherapy sensory shower, again, all at your own pace.
To the Infinity Pools!
Andie Huber
The property has a series of three pools. One is designated just for adults while the other two are open for kid play all day long. The ocean, BTW, is strictly off-limits due to incredibly strong rip tides and waves (you'll understand once you see it) but honestly, who needs to deal with all that sticky sand when you can chill at the pool and just look out and appreciate the Pacific from a safe, sand-free distance?
The pools are, in a nutshell, divine and there is always something cool to explore whether it's the see-through glass section on one of the pools or hopping on some fun floaties.
This is the part where for those that don't know the beauty of the all-inclusive need to pay attention. You don't have to worry about ordering a drink and not liking it and force yourself to drink it because #vacationdollars. You don't have to worry about that lunch your child insisted he would eat and decided he didn't want anymore cause he won't get out of the pool. One of the biggest stressors of vacation is that moment where to eat, what to do with all the food that is leftover, how are you going to stretch your dollar for lunch so you can have a nice dinner. At Grand Velas Los Cabo, not only is that concern removed, some of the freshest, most innovative food is available. And there's a mini-fridge in your room that is a perfect spot for leftovers (if you have any).
Grand Pop-Ups
The resort is always bringing out something new during the day. Shaved ice, guacamole stations were just two of the additional fun activations we saw and then at night, got to experience a star-gazing event with a NASA-certified astronomer.
Of course they can also arrange anything in your imagination including sand castle building, Spanish lessons, piñata making, kickball tournaments, animal shows, cooking and baking classes, drive-in movies, eco-cycling tours and more.
Kid's Club
Andie Huber
For younger children set (ages 4-12), the Kids’ Club is 1,000 square feet of fun and creativity. There are designated reading nooks, arts and crafts tables, videogame and movie theatre spaces are all offered here while the adjacent outdoor space has soccer and treasure hunts.
Inside Tip: Take advantage of the later hours (kids can stay here until 11 p.m.) so you can enjoy dinner while your kids play their hearts out.
Grand Play
Outside the kid's club, splash pad and wading pool that is designed for the toddler crowd, there are three jungle gym sets with the same ocean views the rest of the resort enjoys. How awesome is that as parents, we get to be a part of the action without being relegated off to the side of the resort, never to be seen again?
Grand Views All Around
Andie Huber
Even during the walk back to your room, you are treated to amazing views of the coastline.
Grand Libations and Eats
Unlike other all-inclusive, this Los Cabos all inclusive resort has made fine dining and drinking an experience unto itself. There are so many places to choose from (from casual open-air to fancy Mexican at Frida known for a 25K Taco!) but the option to take a moment and enjoy a meal that your may not get to have any where else in the world is what sets this resort apart.
Dutch native and two-star-Michelin Chef Sidney Schutte heads up Cocina de Autor a groovy vibe restaurant that offers a 10-course tasting menu with wine pairing that will have you thinking about the meaning of parenthood (kidding not kidding—the kids are having fun in the club house so it's okay to pretend you and your partner are single and fancy-free). Each course delivered on taste, was decadent and visually stunning.
The wine offerings are world-renown, the education about Tequila and the tastings available are mind-blowing (we recommend the reposado) along with creative cocktails that will have you asking for the recipes so you can replicate when you get home.
The kids will love Lucca for the Italian, Frida for the Mexican, and Azul for the grilled selections.
The end of the vacation will leave you relaxed, happy, closer to your family than when you came and wanting to return as soon as possible.
Insider Tip: The resort runs some pretty spectacular discounts during the summer...so if you couldn't get your kid into that tech camp like you planned, may we suggest Camp Grand Velas Los Cabo instead?
Getting There: Most major airlines fly into Cabo San Lucas International Airport and pre-arranged airport transportation with the hotel. Typical fare to the hotel is $175 each way.
Cost: Up to two kids (ages 4 to 12) are free and teens are 50% off when staying in the same suite as the adults from now – Oct. 31, 2018. Rates for adults start at $582 at Grand Velas Los Cabos per adult, per night, based on double occupancy. Teen rates are $100 (with 50% discount applied) and goes up depending on the length of stay and type of room or suite. There are no additional costs for the kids club, teen club or for requesting cribs and pack ‘n plays.
No Cost Extras: Everything from cribs, Mexican toys, baby floats, and baby clothes to gentle bath and shampoo gels are available and can be reserved prior to arrival complimentary from the Baby Concierge, including specially prepared organic foods and beverages on request for babies.
Good news, folks! You’ve got a pretty good reason to hit up your favorite donut joint! National Donut Day is Friday, June 3 and it’d be a crime not to join in on the sugary action. Click through our album to discover the donut hotspots that you and your sidekick need to sink your teeth into on National Donut Day — or really any day!
For Your Morning Fix: Firecakes
Our Fave: Triple Valrhona Chocolate Cake
Why We’re Sweet on It: Chocolate cake, chocolate icing and cocoa nibs add up to confection perfection. Somehow, it satisfies a craving without being cloyingly sweet. Not a chocolate fan? Nab the Tahitian vanilla glazed if it’s there; it won the Donut Fest award.
The Digs: By now you know that gourmet donuts and tight quarters go hand in hand (this one’s a mere 600 square feet), but it’s a cozy, bright space.
Perks: Kids can wash down their snack with organic whole or 2% milk, or fresh pressed orange juice or lemonade. There’s La Colombe coffee for you.
We thought last year was the year of the ice cream in Los Angeles, and nothing would ever top all the amazing new offerings available to Angeleno kids (and parents!). Well hold on to your waistbands, because if anything, this summer saw even MORE out of this world ice cream spots open up. From tacos to churros to cauliflower, discover the coolest new treats LA is scooping.
Honeymee
Sometimes you want a soft serve, but not the of the "serve yourself a billion chemicals variety." Nothing too sweet or brightly colored. That’s where Honeymee, now open in K-Town and Sawtelle, comes in. Fresh milk ice cream, drizzled with honey. Not too sweet, it leaves them buzzing for more.
We all scream for: Kids aren’t fans of the honeycomb the way we are ("It's waxy" we heard from more than one little taster) so while parents opt for the “Honeymee,” tots seem to prefer the “Dear” which is drizzled with chocolate and a hint of sea salt.
11301 W Olympic Blvd.
Japantown
Online: honeymee.com
photo credit: Judy Park
Which new ice cream is your favorite? And have we missed any fabulous new spots?
Parents love pizza almost as much as kids, but sometimes we want a refined meal. With vegetables that aren’t a topping. You’d also like the kids to consume said veg, and not leave enough crust to feed a small nation. Here are two hidden wood-fired spots with greens they gobble and crusts that end up in little bellies, not a sad heap of rejection. Plus wine and a relaxing atmosphere—cue choir of angels. Join us for A Tale of Two Pizzas…
DeSano Pizzeria Napoletana
The mozzarella is made earlier that week, in a small town in Campania. As in, Italy. The flour? It also came from the boot, by boat. Sea salt, straight from the Mediterranean. Here lies your family trip to Italy before your family trip to Italy. But exacting provenance or no, every parent knows a restaurant is only as good as it is appealing to our kids. So while we may marvel over the San Marzano tomato standard or the ovens handmade in Naples (each weighing over 10,000 lbs, no joke!), our kids arrive with different inquiries. Like how’d that guy toss that massive saucer of dough in the air and not drop it? And: Is it tasty? (Answers: we have no idea and heck, yes!)
Happy (Hour) in Hollywood
Some (most) Fridays can’t get here fast enough. This is where DeSano’s happy hour rides into our rescue. Fancy this: every Monday through Friday, from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. family style happy hour is celebrated with two large pizzas plus a bottle of house wine for $50. So load your pie up with all goodies you please, while kids go minimalist Margherita, and everybody goes home happy. Very happy.
Salad Days Are Here Again
Here comes the real fun. A special something happens when they serve the Caprese Salad, atop an emerald bed of glistening spinach. One minute the kids are watching pizza pros toss dough sky high, and they start picking at the food in front of them and suddenly, they’re eating spinach! The spinach nobody is even asking/forcing/bribing them to eat. Don’t know if it’s the super casual picnic table in a warehouse vibe, the doughboys providing classic pizzeria entertainment, or the fact that the pizza itself is outrageously, out-of-control good. Who cares? Kids are eating spinach. And asking for more. And maybe it was watching the dough getting tossed in the air, or the pillowy air pocketed edges, but the crust is eaten as fast as the cheesy middle.
When In Rome, Room To Roam
The atmosphere is old school pizzeria. Think down market digs in what seems like a former warehouse. Huge TV screens, roll of paper towels on the communal tables, plastic wear in a jar. The space is unequivocally kid friendly, the pizza is unequivocally grown-up good. If it has you musing birthday party ideas, run with it. They do those, too.
Foodie tested, kid approved. Salad that everyone loves. (That’s the Caprese, the plain Spinach you’ll dig, but it has decidedly less kid friendly ingredients like mushrooms and artichokes. You can’t push too far, too fast.) Dessert that includes one of the only decent cannoli in town. And free corkage, if you want to bring your own vino. All that, plus a giant and free parking lot? Pinch us, we must be dreaming.
DeSano Pizzeria Napoletana
4959 Santa Monica Blvd.
East Hollywood
Phone: 323-913-7000
Online: desanopizza.it
Olio Wood Fired Pizzeria
Don’t judge a place by its corner. At the intersect of Crescent Heights and Third Street, it may appear all gussied and glossy and gorgeous and grown-up, but inside they do things that have children eating Brussels sprouts, finishing their crusts (alas in this instance, as here you don’t mind munching their leftovers), and fashioning their favorite food out of organic, untreated, whole grain flour, locally made cheese, California extra virgin olive oils, and to wash it down, fresh pressed sodas made from fresh fruit. Olio Wood Fired Pizza is a lure for families that touts an artisanal aptitude and the ability to please picky little people.
Such a Teeny Spot Making Big Flavors
Just 26 seats (plus a kick-back and stay awhile wrap around patio) and Zagat still rates them as one of the top 10 destination spots in the US. That’s the whole country, kids. And after 6 p.m., valet is free with validation, just pull into the garage north of 3rd on Crescent, and voila, enjoy the pie life without suffering the search for parking on 3rd.
That’s Right: Free Valet on 3rd
Well, right off of Third, on Crescent Heights, specifically, from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Just pull into the garage and go get what you came for. They’ll validate your parking so you can go ahead and ignore that $6 sign. How is this place still under the radar?
What They’ll Love
What won’t they? Kids can have a seat at the bar (très grown up) and enjoy a front row seat featuring the entertainment of wood fired pizza making. The staff is as kind as they come, chatting it up, showing their captive audience how to sling pie. But can you believe that even more than the pies, the Brussels sprouts here are the indisputable draw. These things are straight up delicious, all glossy and decorated in almond slivers. Even green-o-phobes gobble these little globes. And the Greek Salad is loaded up with so much good stuff (French sheep’s milk feta and homemade sourdough croutons) that you’ll almost wish they’d eat less salad to leave you more. Scratch that. Just order two. Because when your kiddo asks for seconds of salad, you know you can’t deny them.
“This Salad Tastes Like Pizza”
Direct quote, from two little taste testers. Don’t overreact. Don’t question. (But seriously, how does salad taste like pizza?) Just serve them seconds and asked no questions.
Serendipity by the Slice
There’s a reason their Margherita pizza has landed the cover of both LA Weekly and Los Angeles Magazine. That crust could launch one thousand Italian dreams. Can your baby say burrata? They will.
What’s for Dessert?
Wood. Fired. Chocolate. Chip. Cookies. Uh huh. Take a minute with that. But don’t take more, because they’ll be gone. All melty inside, a Tollhouse commercial all grown up. Wood firing a cookie. Now there’s one we hadn’t seen, and now dream of.
Olio Wood Fired Pizzeria
8075 West 3rd St.
Mid-City LA
Phone: 323-930-9490
Online: pizzeriaolio.com
Eating out in LA is a treat—one that should feel that way to each generation. Pull up a chair, pull off a slice, and inaugurate a new age in pizza eating that would make any Italian grandma proud.
What’s your secret pizza spot where the kids will join the clean plate club and you’ll get a relaxing gourmet meal?
“That’s mommy’s drink!” says your little one as you pass an Angry Orchard display at the grocery store. We get it: our kids aren’t the only fans of apple juice. Hard cider has come a long way in recent years, its popularity growing in this country faster than any other adult beverage. If you’re a fan of the tart, bubbly stuff, bring your family down to the Presidio on April 25 for the San Francisco Cider Summit. Especially since this year they have some extra-special treats for kids.
Sip, Sip Away!
At this showcase of the world’s top cider producers (in styles ranging from dry and crisp to sweet and fruity), ticketholders are able to sip their way through their picks of over 120 different ciders. Each entry ticket (tickets are $35 in advance, $40, cash only, at the door) gives you a special commemorative glass as well as ten 4-ounce tasting tickets…and extra tastes can be purchased for $2 apiece. Designated drivers can join the party for $5, with a bottle of water included.
Photo: Cider Summit PDX
And For Little Apple Juice Lovers…
The second annual event is opening its doors to families this year, with accompanied minors able to attend free of charge. They can even sip on some fresh-pressed apple juice and play a round of apple bowling courtesy of Gowan Orchards. For once, it’s perfectly fine for them to play with their food! Other snacks, such as KIND bars, as well as grub from the Whole Foods Market truck, will keep little tummies from grumbling as the grownups make the tasting rounds. And even furry friends can get into the spirit at the Dog Lounge sponsored by Berkeley Humane.
Photo: Site of this year’s festival, the Parade Ground at the Presidio
Party in the Park
We highly recommend hopping on a PresidiGo shuttle bus to get to and from the event, which is being held at the Civil War Parade Ground, adjacent to the Main Post. These free shuttle buses depart frequently from downtown. Once you’re in the Presidio, why not make a day of it in this national park? Kids and adults alike love the Walt Disney Museum, which is hosting special programming for Earth Day. And don’t forget about the Presidio Officers’ Club, with their popular Creative Family Fun weekend activities—this weekend they’ll be recycling all those Easter egg cartons to make egg animals. The Cider Festival runs from noon to 6 p.m. and will benefit The Institute for Myeloma & Bone Cancer Research, Berkeley Humane, and the California Cider Association.
San Francisco Cider Summit
Saturday, April 25, noon-6 p.m.
Civil War Parade Ground, Presidio
San Francisco, Ca
Tickets: $35 in advance, $40 (cash only, if tickets available) at the door; $5 or designated drivers (includes bottled water); accompanied minors FREE.
Online: cidersummitnw.com/sfeventinfo
Are you a cider lover? Will you be attending this year?
