This 14 Foot LEGO Space Needle Replica Is a Must See

by Shahrzad WarkentinDecember 18, 2019

Visitors to Seattle’s famous Space Needle can now get a look at a mini version thanks to the new LEGO Space Needle.

Standing at 14 feet tall and weighing 150 pounds the LEGO Space Needle now has a permanent home in the Space Needle’s gift shop called Spacebase. The model, which took 55,000 bricks to build, is meticulously crafted in the image of the real Space Needle as it appeared for the 1962 World’s Fair.

The model is composed almost entirely of white, orange, gold and black LEGO parts, all colors that were included in the original Space Needle. The LEGO creation was first erected at BrickCon 2012 by Wayne Hussey, model creator and BrickCon Director, along with fellow builders Carlyle Livingston II and Tom Gafert.

Hussey set to work rebuilding the model for display at Seattle’s Space Needle in early November and it’s now complete and ready to view. This latest creation includes some famous minifigure faces, like Batman, Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as some Space Needle window washers, all peering down from the observation deck.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of Space Needle

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Your Cheesy Gordita Dreams Are about to Come True! Taco Bell Is Opening a Resort

by Erica LoopMay 20, 2019

Taco Bell fans rejoice! Not only can you pick up your fave Nacho Taco, Chalupa, Crunchwrap or Cheesy Gordita at your local Taco Bell drive-thru, but now you can spend an entire vaycay relaxing at a restaurant-themed resort.

According to recent reports, Taco Bell recently announced a limited-time summer getaway. The Bell: A Taco Bell Hotel and Resort is popping up in Palm Springs, California on Aug. 9.

The taco-rrific place to stay will have “Bell” hops, Baja Blasts, sauce packet pool floaties and a gift shop that’s filled with Taco Bell gear. If you’re looking for a spa-side service, The Bell will offer nail art, fades and a braid bar—all inspired by the fast food eatery.

Taco Bell’s Chief Global Brand Officer Marisa Thalberg said, in a press release, “The Bell stands to be the biggest expression of the Taco Bell lifestyle to date. It will be fun, colorful, flavorful and filled with more than what our fans might expect.” Thalberg went on to add, “Also, just like some of our most sought-after food innovation, this hotel brings something entirely new for lucky fans to experience and enjoy.”

So if you’re looking for a way to spend a few summer days, and get in a serious Taco Bell fix, you’re in luck! The Bell will start taking reservations (for adults 18 and older) this June. Visit Taco Bell’s website here for information on booking your room.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Taco Bell via Instagram

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by Shahrzad WarkentinMarch 26, 2019

If the home of America’s favorite cave-dwelling cartoon characters is on your family’s travel bucket list, then you’d better act fast. Bedrock City, the iconic Flintstones roadside attraction, is about to go the way of the dinosaurs.

This page right out of history is about to be history as Bedrock City, the Flintstones-themed attraction in Arizona, prepares to shut down after this summer. The park—which has been open and family run since the 1970s—was bought earlier this year by developers.

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A post shared by Charles Phoenix (@_charlesphoenix)

Before it is completely gone, developer Troy Morris plans to give fans one last chance to visit Bedrock City. The spot, which is a popular detour for travelers heading to the Grand Canyon, will reopen its diner, gift shop and RV park in June for one last summer before it’s closed for good.

While it will be sad to say farewell to Fred, Wilma, Barney and Betty, it’s not all bad news. The 30-acre property will be redeveloped into a new theme park called Raptor Ranch, which will be perfect for young travelers once its built. The new attraction will feature at least a few remnants of its pre-historic predecessor as Morris says he plans to keep Bedrock City’s brontosaurus slide, which will be the centerpiece of a playground. The total renovation will take up to five years to complete.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: _charlesphoenix via Instagram

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Your Guide to the New & Improved Space Needle

by Jeff ToteyDecember 5, 2018

Standing at 605 feet tall, the Space Needle has always been a spectacular sight for both visitors and Seattleites alike, but with its latest $100 million renovation, it looks better than ever! Sure, the Needle has been around since 1962 and you’re probably thinking ,”been there, done that,” but wait until you see what they’ve done with the place and the view. A whole new experience awaits you, and we have all the deets you need to know plus more on the epic climb to the top of the Needle with Base 2 Space. Read on!

photo: Suraj Joshee via Space Needle Facebook page

Arriving at Atmos
The top of the Needle is now referred to as Atmos and includes three levels: the 500-foot observation level (with the world’s first revolving glass floor), the 510-foot Ring Level (with less spectacular but still important new restrooms) and the 520-foot observation level (with both indoor and outdoor open-air viewing). Connecting all three is a new grand staircase. The Oculus Stairs are two half-moon shaped staircases built from steel, wood and glass. At the base of the stairs sits the Oculus, a 19 foot by 11 foot glass floor that gives a unique view of the elevators and counterweights.

photo: Marcy Grantor

Skyrising Selfies
On the 520-foot level you’ll immediately notice one of the biggest changes to the Needle. Gone is the metal security “cage” that used to surround the Observation Deck. It has been replaced with open-air glass walls providing uninhibited 360-degree views. All around the deck you’ll find 24 glass “Skyriser” benches that lean back away from the needle. If you dare, take a seat, lean back and imagine what it would be like to be floating high above the ground (selfies are encouraged from this unique angle!). Inside the indoor observation level, you’ll find the Atmos Café offering beverages and light bites.

photo: Marcy Grantor

Around the Loupe
Located on the 500 foot level is “The Loupe” which is the world’s first and only revolving glass floor giving you amazing downward views of Seattle while also revealing the mechanics of what makes the rotating floor turn. The Loupe makes a full rotation every 45 minutes, and while two-thirds of the floor actually turns, the center third of the floor stays still. While little ones might not want to look down, you can relax knowing that the 37-ton glass floor is made from 10 layers (yep, you read that right!) of structural glass. And if that isn’t enough to settle your nerves, you will be happy to know that the Atmos Wine Bar can be found on this too. Well played, Space Needle!

photo: Space Needle

Other Features to Make Note Of
The new Space Needle comes with a few extra special touches to make your experience all the more memorable without any extra fees. These include:

1 Multiple professional digital photos including the Skyhigh Selfie and the Zoomie.

2. An interactive area that includes a digital globe and a wall of memories featuring photos through the years.

3. The Stratos Virtual Reality experience where you can feel what it would be like to bungee jump off the Needle!

photo: Melinda Wong

Be Sure to Exit Through the Gift Shop
Though you don’t have to, your visit to the Space Needle wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the Spacebase Gift Shop. Not only will you find Needle-themed souvenirs, but you’ll also find apparel, drinkware, food items, jewelry, toys, books and more. If you need a Seattle-themed gift or unique kid’s birthday present, the Spacebase Gift Shop has you covered.

photo: Mark Grantor

Climb to the Top of the Needle with Base 2 Space
During the month of September, guests can climb the 832 stairs up one of two intertwining, open-air stairwells. Why? To support the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and the Space Needle Foundation. The best part? One hundred percent of the donations benefit the two organizations with close to one million dollars in funds raised annually. Keep an eye on their website for 2019 climb dates!

photo: Mark Grantor

Good to know: To be eligible for a trophy, you’ll need to be signed up as an Elite Climber (one that can run a 5-6 minute mile), a Runner (able to complete a 7-10 minute mile) or a Trotter (able to complete a mile within 11-15 minutes). All participants must be 8 years old or older and all kids ages 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult. The registration fee for adults is $75 plus a $175 fundraising minimum and $50 plus a $100 fundraising minimum for youth ages 8-17. Register or find more information online.

Space Needle
400 Broad St.
Seattle, WA 98109
206-905-2100
Online: spaceneedle.com

Hours: Sun.-Mon., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-10 p.m.

Cost: $27.50-$37.50/Adults; $25.50-$32.50/Seniors (65+); $22.50-$28.50/Youth (5-12); 4 & under Free. Save $5 per ticket if you arrive between 9 a.m.-11 a.m.

Insider Tip: Buy your tickets online before you go and you won’t have to wait in line (in the rain) at the base of the Needle. Wheelchairs are allowed on the observation decks but all strollers need to checked.

—Jeffrey Totey

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One Fish, Two Fish: Your Insider’s Guide to the Seattle Aquarium

by Alaina WeimerApril 26, 2018

What’s not to love about aquariums? They not only give us a first-hand glimpse at some of the most colorful and eccentric animals on our planet, but they allow our kiddos the opportunity to experience life under the sea outside of The Little Mermaid. And guess what, Seattle parents? Seattle is home to the ninth largest aquarium in the US by attendance. If you’ve got a mini marine biologist on your hands or a tot who just can’t wait to find Nemo, then a day trip to the Seattle Aquarium with kids will definitely float your boat. Dive in and read on to see why!

photo: Seattle Aquarium

Where to Submerge
Once you make your way to the Seattle Aquarium on Pier 59, wade on past the ticket counter and you will run smack dab into the first exhibit the Aquarium has to offer. It’s called Window on Washington Waters and it sets the stage for all the amazing things the Seattle Aquarium has for you and your mini oceanographers. The humongous 120,000-gallon tank is filled to the brim with more than 800 fish and invertebrates native to Pacific Northwest waters and will give the Littles the feeling of being right there inside this fishy world. And what’s more engaging is that three times every day (10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:15 p.m.), a diver will plunge right into the water with an underwater microphone to give you fun facts about our water-faring friends. There is plenty of bench seating, but encourage your kiddos to plop down on the floor in front for the best vantage point…and the ideal front-row position for asking questions!

photo: Seattle Aquarium

Float Further In
Wander through to the next section of the Aquarium by bobbing past the gift shop (or jet past it if you don’t want your little one sucked into the gift shop whirlpool just yet), to an awesome hands-on, interactive exhibit. Complete with touch pools, a moon jellyfish tunnel and the always crowd-pleasing Giant Pacific Octopus viewing area, it’s the place to get hands-on with sea creatures.

Palms in the Pool
Little buggers and enthusiastic grabbers who can’t wait to get their hands in the water will be thrilled with the Aquarium’s two large touch pools. Filled with some of the Puget Sound’s and coastal area’s funky plethora of sea creatures (think: sea cucumbers, urchins, sea stars and crabs), the touch pools are a great way for your kiddos to get a hands-on experience with these peculiar aquatic pals. (Psst…encourage your teeny deep sea fishers to gently put their fingers in between the spikes of a sea urchin. Its spikes will give their fingers a sweet little “hug.” It’s adorable and your nautical munchkins will eat it up!) And feel free to ask questions to any of the nearby and knowledgeable naturalists. They know a lot about these guys!

photo: Seattle Aquarium

Approaching Appendages
On your way through the Aquarium, you can’t miss the giant Pacific octopuses. (Yep, that’s right. Not Octopi, don’t let anyone tell you different!) These large eight-armed creatures are a glorious sight for your own handsy critters to see, whether suctioned to the glass or waving their limber arms as they swim through the tubes. Psst…if you happen to be there at either noon or 4 p.m., you can catch a daily octopus feeding!

photo: Seattle Aquarium

Further back in Aquarium (and past the cute sea life-themed felt sticky board and scuba costume dress-up area—perfect for your tiniest of wiggly worms to spend a few moments of imaginative play), you will encounter the tropical fish and coral reef area where your kiddos can discover many of the vivid swimmers that the deep ocean has to offer…and where parents can dream of carefree island snorkeling trips!

More Fishies, Feathers & Fur
After you have exhausted the first main floor area, paddle on through the side exit doors to enter the next section of the Aquarium. Upstairs, you will run into aquatic birds (tiny Puffin Rock fans, this means you!) as well as the cute-as-a-button seals and otters. Then, drift on downstairs to the one-of-a-kind Underwater Dome. This 360-degree, 400,000-gallon, overhead dome houses more Puget Sound fish for your minuscule sea captains to discover. Everything from our area’s important open-water salmon, to sharks, to huge green and white sturgeons (a fan favorite as they are the biggest dudes in there!). If you find yourself there after 12 p.m., stick around for the daily fish feeding at 1:30 p.m. Insider’s Tip: The upper level and the overhead seal viewing area is open-air. If it’s a cold day, keep your kiddo’s jacket with you, so you can slip it on when exploring this area. There can be quite a bite up there…from the air, not the animals, of course!

photo: Seattle Aquarium

What’s on the Horizon
If you plan on taking your wee water aficionados to the Seattle Aquarium in the next few months, the Aquarium has special events planned for both Mother’s and Father’s Day! The Mother’s Day event is scheduled for May 13 and will feature special talks, perfect for all the mamas and mamas-to-be out there. Activities start at 10 a.m. and a free four-hour parking voucher is included with your visit. For dads, June 17 will include special Father’s Day presentations, hands-on activities and fun for the whole family. The Aquarium will also be hosting Deaf Community Days with the next one coming up on May 19 from 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sign language interpreters will be on hand to guide you through.

If Your Kid Is a Big Mouth Bass or a Gift Shop Grouper
During or after your underwater experience, be sure to head to the gift shop for a souvenir. If you need a little pick-me-up, stop by the full cafe on the upper level above the lobby. It’s the perfect spot for lunch or when you need to fill tiny bellies to keep the momentum going. There are plenty of kid- and adult-friendly options, plus you get a fantastic view of the Sound (and the Seattle Great Wheel, Pier 57 and probably a seagull or two!).

Where to Park your Boat, Er, Car
Although there is no “on-site” parking, there are plenty of garage options within close walking distance. Recommended parking options include Pike Place Market Parking Garage or Republic Parking Hillclimb Garage. Check the aquarium’s website here for directions. Keep in mind, the garages are across the street from the aquarium, so there will be a short walk to the building and a busy road to cross before you get there. Parking estimates are about 3 bucks an hour (or $1 off if you present your parking ticket from Republic).

Seattle Aquarium
1483 Alaskan Way, Pier 59
Seattle, Wa 98101
206-386-4300
Online: seattleaquarium.org

Hours: Daily, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; last entry at 5 p.m., all exhibits close at 6 p.m.
Admission: $29.95/Adults, $19.95/Youth (4-12), 3 & under Free. $2 off for Seniors (65 & older), persons with disabilities and active military.

Have you visited the Seattle Aquarium lately? What’s your family’s favorite exhibit? Tell us about your underwater adventures in the comments below!

—Alaina Weimer

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by Nella DuBon-KochApril 3, 2018

When was the last time you visited the San Francisco Zoo? If the question has you reminiscing of elementary-school field trips, it’s time you grabbed your mini zoologists and headed on an expedition of your own. Spend the day exploring educational exhibits, brush up on your wildlife information and have a blast at the multi-themed playground. Read on for our insider’s guide to this 100-acre wildlife conservation preserve in the middle of San Francisco.

Getting Started
If you’ve never been to the SF Zoo, grab a map and decide what animal exhibits are a must for you. You will find restrooms and the Gift Shop at Entry Village, if you prefer to make a quick stop before the end of the day. There’s a lot of area to cover and the truth is you may not see it all in one visit. Check the map out in advance and get the most out of your day.

(Tip: Don’t skip the the African Savannah and Lemur Forrest. Both are awesome and best explored at the beginning when your troops are still energized.)

photo: Marianne Hale

Oh Baby, Baby!
It’s always fun to check out the new additions to the zoo when you visit. Word has it, if you look closely, you might spy a cute, little, new face in the Australian WalkAbout—a wallaroo joey! Be sure to stop by and try to get a glimpse of the new addition! The fuzzy, fall flamingo chicks are all grown up, but you can still tell them apart by their grey feathers. The Alaskan-rescued, black bear cubs, recently celebrated their first birthday.

photo: Marianne Hale

Do Not Miss
Adjacent to the Lipman Family Lemur Forest you’ll find the Sifaka exhibit. It is the largest in the country featuring Baobab tree, climbing structures and native Madagascar plants. Your little primates will go bananas watching the Zoboomafoo character come to life and move in their unique sideways jump.

Between Grizzly Gulch and the Black Bear grotto, sits Wolf Canyon, home to the Zoo’s rockstar grey wolves, “Prince, David Bowie and Jerry Garcia.” The three brothers are part of the Species Survival Plan. Stop by their exhibit and learn the Wolf conservation story as well as the Zoo’s efforts in helping grow the population of the most endangered Wolf subspecies.

The South American Tropical Rainforest and Aviary can go unnoticed but don’t miss out on this sense-engaging, colorful exhibit that the sloth and green anaconda call home.

photo: Marianne Hale

Listen and Learn
The Zoo holds keeper talks throughout the day at various exhibits. Check the day’s schedule for times. The Lion House & Penguin talk are popular ones, so get there early before the crowds. Our favorite is the 4:30 Giraffe Lodge open house. The up-close experience is not to be missed!

photo: Marianne Hale

What’s New?
Thanks to the Lipman Family and other SF Zoo board members, Big Daddy Bahasa is enjoying his new crib! Stop by the new Komodo Crossing exhibit, (next to the Wolverines) complete with a heated rock, night quarters, an indoor and outdoor pool and skylight. This 2,950-square-foot space is a definite upgrade with a great viewing area. While there, head across and meet the two new snow leopards, right outside the Lion house. This breeding pair is a beautiful sight to see and your kitties will enjoy seeing them come right up to the window to say hello.

photo: May Woon

Coming Soon!
Keep your eyes open for the upcoming Chimpanzee exhibit, slated to open this year. Also on the agenda, the renovated Pachyderm building will include indoor viewing area and habitat that will connect to the Chimpanzee Grottos via the Jim Ludwig Passage (overhead walkway) named after long-time donor, board member and SF Zoo champ.

Exploration Zone, Insect Zoo and Elinor Friend Playground
The six-acre Exploration Zone has several hands-on education areas that will keep your young ones entertained for days. The Meerkat and prairie Dog exhibit is a hit, with its eye-level view for the kiddos, burrow-like crawl spaces and foraging sandbox. Your buggies will love crawling on the giant spider web outside the Insect Zoo. Head inside and unwind with some insect-themed books and puzzles. Check out a variety of bugs, including-tarantulas, hissing cockroaches, walking-sticks and many more.

Insider tip: On weekends, catch the keeper talk and meet an arthropod or two. The Animal Resource Center houses the Zoo’s Education program animals. Although you can’t tour the inside, you can take a peek through the viewing windows, catch a volunteer sunning a reptile and get up close to an array of raptors sitting on the hill.

Continue down to the Family Farm where you can feed the goats and brush the sheep. Keep your eyes open for newly-hatched chicks and say hello to the Alpacas. Finally, let your little trekkers run wild at the 36,000-square-foot Elinor Friend Playground. There’s a ton to explore in this three-ecosystem themed, age-appropriate playing space. Perfect for burning up energy before the drive home!

Take a Break
Greenie’s Conservation Corner is a quiet spot with an organic garden growing food for some of the Zoo’s animals. Its inviting benches and location near restrooms makes this the perfect spot for nursing moms and little ones in need of a rest. Check out the 1906 earthquake shack and solar-powered fountain while there.

All Aboard and Round We Go!
No Zoo visit is complete without a ride on the 1921 Dentzel carousel and Little Puffer Train. Be sure to stop by these historical staples that continue to bring smiles to generations of Zoo visitors. Good to Know: Little Puffer boarding station is next to Puente Al Sur. It is temporarily closed for annual maintenance. Check here for updates, or call the zoo, (415) 753-7080, to check if rides are operating. Carousel: $4/per person, Standing adults free with a paying child. Little Puffer: $6/per person, children under 3 free with a paying adult.

photo: Marianne Hale

Best To Visit
Early on weekdays is a good time to visit. Not only will you beat the crowds but the animals are most active during the morning. The Zoo offers certain free days to San Francisco residents throughout the year. Stay tuned for the next upcoming day and don’t forget your ID.

Be Prepared
The Zoo’s proximity to the ocean keeps temps on the cooler side. It isn’t always foggy or overcast, so dressing in layers is best. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a hat and don’t forget the sunscreen. Pack your stroller or wagon, or you can rent one there. Bring plenty of snacks and a water bottle to refill.

Insider tip: Purchase a reusable cup or mug and get free/discounted refills at most cafes for the lifetime of cup/mug. The Leaping Lemur Cafe, the biggest eatery in the Zoo, has indoor/outdoor seating and offers a variety of foods including, burgers, salads and international specialties. The Station Pizza Parlor, next to the Little Puffer Depot, serves personal pizzas and large $5 soft serve cones—perfect for sharing. Cafe Playfield, at the Elinor Friend Playground, has organic, kid-friendly meals, snacks and coffee. You can also pack a lunch and picnic at the many areas on grounds. The Gift Shop, at Entry Village, has an espresso bar with yummy pastries if you need a treat for the ride home.

photo: Marianne Hale

Getting There
The Zoo is located a block from the end of the L Taraval MUNI line, as well as the 18 and 23 bus lines. You get $1 off admission price if you show proof of transit. Zoo parking fee is $10/weekdays and $12/weekends and holidays. There is plenty of free street parking along Sloat Blvd, but get there early.

Admission/Hours
General admission: $19/adult; $16/Seniors; $13/children 4-14; children 3 and under are free.
SF Residents: $16/adults; $11.50/Seniors; $9.50/child 4-14; children 3 and under are free.

Members are always free and get to skip the lines!

Hours: The Zoo is open 365 days a year, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (in the spring/summer) and 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (in the fall/winter), last entry an hour before closing time. Children 14 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult while on Zoo grounds.

San Francisco Zoo and Gardens
Sloat Blvd and Great Hwy
San Francisco, CA
415-753-7080
Online: sfzoo.org

What is your favorite way to spend the day at the San Francisco Zoo and Gardens? Share with us below!

—Nella DuBon-Koch

Photos by the author except where noted.

Just Re-Opened: Race To The Petersen Museum

by Shahrzad WarkentinDecember 23, 2015

Developing a car obsession is a rite of passage when you grow up in LA. Well worth the year long wait, the newly renovated and reopened in December Petersen Automotive Museum is the perfect place to go to feed that pint-sized need for speed. Hop in the family ride and cruise on over because you won’t want to miss the hottest new wheels in town, and the stunning architecture alone is worth braving the 405. Read on for our scoop on what kids will want to race to see first.

photo: The Petersen Automotive Museum

It looks like a space ship has landed on Wilshire, but it’s actually a shrine to a different mode of transport. So take in the stunning facade before heading inside. Then you could spend a good long visit to just the Grand Concourse lobby, where your tiny car aficionados will go gaga over some the most impressive vehicles in the collection, before you even pay the price of admission.

But admission paid, scoot them past the gift shop and jump in the elevator and for a ride up to the third floor, where you’ll start your visit learning about the history of cars. Make your way around the wide-open gallery, with ample room for wiggly tots and strollers, featuring cars and motorcycles from every era.

photo: Shahrzad Warkentin

Your kids will definitely want to stop at the Southern California: A Region In Motion exhibit where they can swipe and tap on the tablet displays to learn about how LA’s intricate roadways developed. Next pop over to the Cars of Film and Television where your superhero-fans can get a glimpse of the Batman Car. Don’t leave without snapping a shot of your kiddos pretending to drive the Ford Model T.

photo: Shahrzad Warkentin

Race down the central spiral staircase to the second floor where it’s all about Pixar. This is where you can park yourself for the majority of the day. Head straight for the Cars Mechanical Institute at the center of the gallery, where you can snap another photo-op with a life-size Lightening McQueen, before you unleash your crew into the Discovery Center. Little ones will love racing toy cars around the racetrack play table, while the older kids can use light tables and tablets to draw and decorate cars from the Pixar films.

photo: Shahrzad Warkentin

When they’re played out there, head to the center kiosk to check out the CARSpad Experience. Your little car enthusiasts will receive bright orange covered iPads that they will use to navigate their way around the gallery, featuring exhibits on Vehicle Manufacturing Production and Custom Cars, as Mater guides them in designing their own virtual race care. It’s where little tech fans and young gear heads alike will thrill with the “how things work” learning adventure.

photo: Shahrzad Warkentin

If your pack includes kids in the tween and teen set (or just a video-game loving Dad), lead them over to the Forza Motorsport Racing Experience, where they can race against the clock on the popular arcade-style game for a chance to get their names on the Lap Time scoreboard. Wait times can be up to 30 minutes and drivers must be approximately 5 feet tall in order to reach the pedals. First thing in the morning or late afternoon are the best times to go to beat the line.

photo: Shahrzad Warkentin

Finally, make your way back to first floor Grand Salon, where you can ogle some of the most artistic vehicles in the collection. This is the perfect time to remind your little explorers about the no-touch museum rule, because these shiny beauties are just screaming to be touched. Don’t miss the Art and the Automobile exhibit as you make your way to the exit. Point out the paint-speckled BMW and the accompanying video that shows how the car was used to create a massive painting. Make a mental note to try the Pinterest version of this art project at home using Matchbox cars…

photo: Shahrzad Warkentin

Your visit will come full circle as you arrive back in the lobby where a giant screen displays The Petersen Instagram feed. Pick your cutest kid shot and post it with the hashtag #ThePetersen for a chance to spot yourselves on the board. No visit would be complete without your mini museum-goers herding you over to the gift shop, which is brimming with Cars toys and die cast cars of every make and model you can imagine.

Food: A restaurant will be opening sometime in 2016, until then you can take a short walk down Wilshire Blvd. to the food trucks that are usually parked along museum row, or pop back in your car and drive over to the Original Farmer’s Market.

Hours: Open every day from 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Tickets: Adult admission is $15, child admission is $7 and kids 3 and under are free. Timed entrance tickets can be purchased in advance online.

Parking: For a $12 flat rate, the massive museum lot offers ample parking, but there are no elevators so if you are planning to bring your stroller (which is allowed in the museum), try to find a spot on the ground floor.

The Petersen Automotive Museum
6060 Wilshire Blvd.
Miracle Mile
Online: petersen.org

Have you checked out the newly re-opened Petersen Museum yet? What was your favorite part?

—Shahrzad Warkentin

The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Shopping at Local Stores

by rtmonicanelsonOctober 24, 2015

We know it’s possible to do all of your holiday shopping in ten minutes from the palm of your hand. You put a dozen products with good reviews in your shopping cart, and poof; the packages are on your doorstep. But, there’s nothing quite like browsing the local boutiques during the holidays. For this reason, we hit the pavement to find some pretty cool shops that offer a thoughtfully curated stock of quality items and knowledgeable employees that can help guide you to a great gift for every good girl and boy on your list.

For Treasures and Stocking Stuffers

Photo: Baker County Tourism via Flickr

Appalachian Spring
Appalachian Spring sells gorgeous and handcrafted gifts, glassware, jewelry and home accessories. Pick up a treasure for your little one such as a brass kaleidoscope, kid’s chopsticks crafted in the likeness of various animals, fun bib, or glass Christmas ornaments. FYI: You can seriously lose track of time browsing and reading about the artists’ and crafters’ backgrounds here.

Locations in Georgetown, Union Station, Rockville and Reston
Online: appalachianspring.com

The Toy Soldier Shop
The craftsman who runs this amazing little shop offers (and repairs and restores) an encyclopedic array of toy soldiers from every major toy soldier maker from over the last century. The shop owner also creates custom commissions of toy soldiers. Stop in and get a great history lesson too.

502 11^th St., SE
Online: toysoldiershop.com

Chocolate Moose
In addition to selling an array of specialty chocolate, this shop features a quirky and fun assortment of unique gifts (think: temporary tattoos that transform your hands into dinosaurs, Haikubes that are word dice that you arrange into haikus and place mats that you color on) and kitschy knick knacks. They also have a fun assortment of kids’ toys such as city blocks stacking blocks, a sculpture kit inspired by the artist, Miro, and old school portable pinball.

1743 L St., NW
Online: chocolatemoosedc.com

Le Village Marche
This Parisian inspired boutique features a carefully handpicked selection of home décor, accessories, kitchenware and gifts that reflect the owner’s love of old World architecture and rustic textures juxtaposed with modern Parisian chic. The back corner of the shop is devoted to childrens’ and babies’ items. Pick up handcrafted toys, the Cat in the Hat in French, artwork for the nursery and other unique gifts.

Shirlington Village (Va) and Cathedral Commons (D.C.)
Online: levillagemarche.com

For Babies and Toddlers

Photo: Covet

Covet
While not exclusively devoted to baby’s things, this whimsical and beautifully curated gift shop is like walking into a brick and mortar Etsy storefront. In addition to locally handcrafted jewelry, accent furniture and other unique items, browse through baby onesies, beautiful toddler clothes and original artwork.

5140 Wilson Blvd. (Arlington, Va)
Online: covetarlington.com

Dawn Price Baby
This boutique stocks essentials such as strollers, cribs and baby carriers but what makes it special is its selection of special occasion outfits, unique toys and accessories you won’t find in a baby chain store and DC-themed gifts such as a onesie showcasing a map of D.C. neighborhoods.

Locations in Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Fairfax and Reston
Online: dawnpricebaby.com

For Clothes

Photo: Full of Beans

Full of Beans
This Chevy Chase shop features a handpicked selection of beautiful and functional children’s clothes made by small manufacturers in the U.S.A. Full of Beans also sells toys, baby slings, bibs and other gift items.

3813 Livingston St., NW

Pam K. Bambini Children’s Boutique
This bright, cheerful shop features a gorgeous selection of finely made children’s clothing and features many European and Canadian brands. You can shop with your little ones in tow who can amuse themselves with puzzles, games and hopscotch.

3301 New Mexico Ave.

Tabby Cat Kids Clothes and Gifts
In addition to carrying beloved brands like Le Top, Tea and Zutano, Tabby Cat has a good selection of unique and locally made baby gifts and products.

2946 Chain Bridge Rd. (Oakton, Va)

For Toys, Books and Games

Photo: Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Kinderhaus Toys
In addition to a wide variety of popular toys, you’ll also find an old-fashioned Paddington Bear, Lincoln Logs, Tinker Toys and wooden hobby horses. This shop stocks quality toys that are built to last.

1220 N. Fillmore St. (Arlington, Va)
Online: kinderhaus.com

The National Building Museum Gift Shop
The shop was referred to in 1000 Places to See Before You Die as the country’s best museum gift shop. The store carries architecture, engineering and design-inspired gifts for everyone on your list and it is easy to spend hours here browsing through building kits, children’s toys and books.

401 F St., NW
Online: nbm.org

Labryinth Games and Puzzles
The shop has an incredible selection of non-electronic specialty games, puzzles and mazes. The friendly and extremely knowledge staff can help guide you to the perfect game. There is a community area in the back of the store where you can join in game playing.

645 Pennsylvania Ave., SE
Online: labyrinthgameshop.com

Doodlehopper 4 Kids
In addition to friendly and knowledgeable staff that go out of their way to help you find the perfect gift, this shop carefully selects its stock to present a wide selection of great toys. You will find a variety of popular items here as well as a great selection of old fashioned and educations toys.

Locations in Falls Church City and Springfield, VA
Online: doodlehopper.com

Fair Days Play
This neighborhood shop definitely has personality. Shop here for hula hoops, a great selection of board games, fair trade soccer balls, a bouncy Riding horse and all manner of wonderful toys for all ages. This store has a wide selection of learning toys, developmental aids and unique toys that they don’t sell at chain stores.

7050 Carroll Ave. (Takoma Park, Md)
Online: fairdaysplay.com

Tipo’s Toy Box
Tipo’s has a great variety of durable and fun educational toys and crafts and organizes its large stock of toys, games and puzzles in age appropriate sections. They also specialize in toys and games for children with special needs.

724 Center Point Way (Gaithersburg, Md)
Online: tipostoybox.com

–Monica Nelson

The Secret Life of Stickers: Visit Mrs. Grossman’s Sticker Factory

by Melissa BouseAugust 18, 2015

If you have young kids in the house, there’s a good chance you also have stickers. Maybe even a few where they don’t belong. But have you ever stopped to think how they’re made? Well, in an unassuming office park, on the outskirts of Petaluma lies a Willy Wonka-esque world that holds all the answers—and you don’t even need to find a golden ticket to get in.

On a Roll
Mrs. Grossman’s Sticker Factory started churning out colorful stickers of all shapes and sizes in 1979. And for years, they’ve been quietly letting families get a behind-the-scenes look at the process. Four days a week, they offer guided factory tours, showing how a sticker gets made from start to finish.

Stick Together
First, you’ll meet your guide and watch a 5-minute video about the factory. Then you’ll be whisked onto the factory floor, where you’ll make several stops. You’ll learn how stickers are printed, cut, and packaged. You will also get to wander among giant rolls of stickers- stacked to the warehouse ceiling. At each stop, your guide will generously hand out samples (you might want to bring a little bag, it’s a lot of loot!) The tour concludes with a special sticker activity in the gift shop. There you can also purchase any and all the stickers and sticker paraphernalia your heart desires!

The Fine Print
You’ll need to call ahead to book your tour. They do not accept walk-ins, as they try to limit the amount of people on each tour to about 15 people. Tours are offered Monday through Thursday each week, and you’ll want to plan to spend at least an hour at the factory (the tour itself is about 50 minutes.)

Make a Day of It
Known as the hometown of Winona Ryder, the filming of American Graffiti, and its annual Butter & Egg Days Parade, historic riverside Petaluma is such a fun place to explore with your family. The relaxing drive there on US 101 past fields of grazing cattle will get you and the kiddos in just the right relaxed mindset for the mellow, yet friendly downtown vibe. And who knows, if you hail from a small town, a trip up to Petaluma might just make you nostalgic for that charming hometown of your childhood. Find out where to eat, play and stay right here.

Mrs. Grossman’s Sticker Factory
3810 Cypress Drive
Petaluma, Ca
Reservations: 800-429-4549 or 707-763-1700
Cost: $7/Ages 12 and up; $5/ Ages 3-11; Free/Under 3
Online: mrsgrossmans.com

Did you have a favorite sticker growing up?

—Melissa Bouse

Just Opened!: One World Observatory

by Mimi O'ConnorMay 27, 2015

New Yorkers are somewhat known for at least feeling like we’ve seen it all. Well, you haven’t seen this! One World Observatory, the top three floors of One World Trade Center that provide a 360-degree view of New York City and its surroundings at 1,250 feet, will open to the public this weekend. We got a sneak preview. Here’s what you can expect when you visit this new urban landmark, and what we think the kids (and yeah, you too) will think is especially cool.

photo: One World Observatory

Welcome to New York!

The One World Observatory obviously has big “shoes” to fill, given that it’s the presumably new-and-improved version of the similar experience enjoyed by many at the World Trade Center observation deck. From the moment you arrive at the at the attraction’s “Global Welcome Center”, things feel high-tech, somewhat space age, with a little bit of “waiting-for-the-really-big-ride-at-Disney” thrown in. A large video board features welcome messages in 10 languages, while a world map highlights the hometowns of visitors in real time, using data relayed from ticket scans.

The Waiting Game

Some long, winding corridors lead to the elevators, and chances are most visitors will spend some time standing in line in these halls. Thankfully, some entertainment is provided in the form of “Voices,” a 14 minute film featuring the personal stories of the men and women who built One World Trade Center. Displayed on a video wall made up of 144 individual monitors, the piece includes thoughts from the engineers and architects, to construction workers and foremen. (One person calls it “the Superbowl of construction,” while another recalls clouds blowing through the high floors before the walls were completed. Visitors also get a reminder of the havoc Hurricane Sandy caused at the site.)

The landscape then changes to resemble the bedrock on which the building is constructed, the famed “Manhattan schist.” Facts about the bedrock are projected onto the (faux) craggy surface, and dramatic lighting adds to the subterranean feel.

photo: One World Observatory

The Ride to the Top

A bank of five elevators do the literal heavy lifting of delivering visitors to the 102nd floor. Dubbed “Sky Pods,” these cabs get there in 47 seconds and are the fastest elevators in the Western hemisphere. Don’t think you (or your kid) can handle shooting up that fast and seeing the ground fall out from under you? Don’t worry: the interiors of the cars are lined with floor-to-ceiling LED screens, which ironically, provide one of the highlights of the experience: as the cars ascend, the walls of the elevators display a virtual time-lapse of the development of the New York City Skyline, starting in the 1500s. The photorealistic animation contains nearly 35,000 different objects (tall ships in the harbor!) and 2,000 historical images, including the appearance and disappearance of the Twin Towers.

On a Clear Day

Following the fast ride up, visitors enter the “See Forever Theater,” where a razzle-dazzle two-minute video showcasing the sights, sounds, and energy of New York is screened. (Cool fact to impress your child: apparently the film was edited and scored to a tempo based on pedometer data of the “average” New Yorker.)

The Main Event (and Supporting Players)

And then, it’s on to the big attraction, the view itself. Is it great? Of course it’s great, and the space seems like it’s big enough to handle large crowds. The observation area is tricked out with a couple additional features for visitors to take in. The first, the “Sky Portal,” is a 14-foot wide circular disc which creates the illusion of looking down through the floor to the streets below; the “view” is real-time high-definition video from cameras on the building’s exterior.

The second, while kind of cool, is probably more for out-of-towners. “City Pulse” is a sort of interactive set of monitors controlled by “skyline concierges” — One World Observatory employees who use City Pulse to help groups learn more about areas of interest. (The idea is that one person may want to know about sports in New York, while other visitors might have interest in the city at the turn of the century.)

The Extras

One World Observatory is a tourist destination, so you’ll find green screen photo ops (with the chance to buy your photo as you exit), as well as three dining options of varying formality. The most casual is the One Café, which serves baked goods, sandwiches, soups, salads and more. And of course, there’s a gift shop, for all you One World Observatory tchotchke needs.

Tickets are on sale now at the One World Observatory box office and online at oneworldobservatory.com.

One World Observatory
One World Trade Center (entrance on the West Plaza alongside West Street near Vesey)
Open daily, 9 a.m.-midnight
Tickets: adults 13-64/$32; kids 6-12/$26; seniors/$30, kids under 5/free (but must be ticketed)
844-696-1776
Online: oneworldobservatory.com

Will you visit One World Observatory? Let us know in the comments!

—Mimi O’Connor

ML Interest Tag: gift-store

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