ML Interest Tag: mansion

The DMV’s Coolest Places to Throw a Baby Shower

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

From the grand (Nats stadium, anyone?) to an intimate restaurant room, you won’t want a shower at one of these local destinations to end. But don’t worry, with baby on the way the party is just getting started.

Photo: Punchbowl Social

For the mom that’s a big kid at heart…
The mom-to-be may not be able to sip on one of Punchbowl Social’s signature and infamous cocktails, but delish imbibes are just the tip of the fun iceberg at this new swanky gastropub. Old-school games like bowling, shuffleboard, Ping-Pong and private karaoke rooms, meld with a modern design that blends mountain lodge, Victorian, industrial and mid-century modern. In other words, this baby shower is an Instagramers dream! Idea for party favors: A custom CD loaded with top hits from baby’s birth year.

Punchbowl Social
4238 Wilson Blvd Ste. 1180 (Arlington, Va)
Online: punchbowlsocial.com

Photo: Mount Vernon Inn via Facebook

For the mom who’s a history buff…
Soak in all of the history at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant, just steps from the mansion that George Washington built himself in the 1700s. Many rooms (or the entire restaurant) are available for parties up to 260 people. Ask about guided tours of the gardens or see the rarely visited Mansion basement for a one-of-a-kind baby shower. Idea for party favors: Heirloom seeds from the plants grown on the Estate.

Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy. (Mount Vernon, VA)
703-780-0011
Online: mountvernon.org/inn

Photo: April S. via Yelp

For the mom who wants to be Kate Middleton for a day…
Built in 1926, the Glenview Mansion is a historic and picturesque venue to celebrate the arrival of a little prince or princess. For big parties (up to 200), the Mansion and Formal Gardens are hired for the entire day on weekends. But if the royal party is on the smaller side, consider a shower during the weekday when individual rooms are available. The best part is you can choose any caterer you want! Idea for party favors: A sparkly dress-up tiara, so guests can show who’s boss (er, queen) at home.

Glenview Mansion
603 Edmonston Dr. (Rockville, MD)
240-314-8660
Online: rockvillemd.gov

Photo: Washington Nationals

For the mom who never misses a baseball game…
If mommy-to-be already has a Nationals jersey in size Infant for her lil’ slugger, then take the party to the ballgame. How cool would it be to open presents on the field, or do a Q&A with mom in the press conference room? Be sure to ask about extras—behind the scene tours, mascot appearances or a red carpet entrance. Caterers are also onsite whether you want to munch on ballpark food or from the five-star menu. Idea for party favors: Boxes of Cracker Jacks, of course.

Nationals Ballpark
1500 S. Capitol St., SE (Navy Yard)
202-640-7368
Online: washington.nationals.mlb.com

Photo: Paint Your Own Pottery via Facebook

For the mom who likes to get her hands dirty…
With babies come tons of keepsakes that mom will want to preserve, so why not have the guests help out?Think: A frame for that first ultrasound, a mug for that morning cup of coffee she’ll need after a long night with the babe, and a box for hospital bracelets. Choose from over 600 pieces in their studio. Finished work is available for pickup in a week. Feel free to bring snacks and cake but be sure to let them know first. Idea for party favors: A gift certificate to come back and create something for themselves.

Paint Your Own Pottery of Fairfax
10417 Main St. (Fairfax, VA)
703-218-2881
Online: createlikecrazy.com

Photo: Mrs. K’s Toll House

For the mom who brunches…
This restaurant sits atop an actual old tollhouse that was last used in the 1900s! Enjoy brunch surrounded by antiques collected by the owner herself, an actual Mrs. K. Skip the mimosas, but still indulge in omelets made-to-order, Belgian waffles, and heavenly pastries and danishes. Private rooms cannot be reserved for Sunday Brunch at Mrs. K’s, so this spot is perfect for smaller showers. If you still want a private space (like a room or the patio), they are available any other time during the week. Idea for party favors: Brunch in a basket–all of the fixins (pancake mix, syrup, can of blueberries) for brunch at home.

Mrs. K’s Toll House
9201 Colesville Rd. (Silver Spring, MD)
Online: mrsks.com

—Ayren Jackson-Cannady and Lisa Ng

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Real Life Homes of Your Favorite Childhood TV Shows

by kim orchen cooper

Marcia.  Laura.  The Fonz.  Batman.  The Angels.  Gilligan.  Staples of childhood stay-up-late TV watching (whether in first run or on Nick at Nite).  And lo and behold, your own mini ones are now old enough to sing along to the Brady Bunch theme and cry along with Pa, Ma and Half-Pint.  So introduce them to the TV pals of your youth (via your TV pals of today: Tivo, Netflik, Roku and YouTube!), and then go on a family excursion to check out the real-life homes of your childhood heroes.

yelp_Brady Bunch_
“The Brady Bunch” Home
Here’s the story, of a house called Brady… Tucked away on a side street near the LA River in North Hollywood, the split-level home of America’s first ‘blended’ family still stands. As lovingly ‘designed by architect Mike Brady’, the exterior has changed over the years, but fans of “Marcia, Marcia, Marcia” will still easily recognize the spot. The house is private property, and bounded by a fence to ward off fans who loved the show the way Marcia loved Davy Jones.

11222 Dilling St.
North Hollywood

Related: All the Places to Eat & Play While in Studio City.

FB_LA_Arboretum

The “Fantasy Island” Cottage
“The Plane! The Plane!” Campy melodrama at its best, “Fantasy Island” was a favorite reason to stay up late on Saturday nights. For a mere (pre-inflation) $50,000, dreams became reality, courtesy of dreamboat Ricardo Montalban, aka Mr. Roarke. Fortunately, dreamers can still visit the bungalow in which his sidekick Tattoo rang the bell to announce each week’s lucky guest. The Queen Ann Cottage at the LA Arboretum in Arcadia is even open to the public where twice a year, the Arboretum hosts tours at the Queen Anne Cottage.

LA Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
301 N. Baldwin Ave.
Arcadia

Nearby: Sample savory dumplings and fruit-flavored shave ice at one of the many local eateries along Baldwin Avenue. Or stop by Westfield Santa Ana for snacks and shopping.

bat caves
“Batman” Bat Cave and Wayne Manor
Holy hiking Batman! Did you know that hikers in Griffith Park can explore the ‘Bat Cave’? Bronson Canyon caves, north of Canyon Drive in the Hollywood Hills is a perfectly picturesque place to take the kiddos for exercise mixed with a little BIF! POW! BAM! as they explore the spot where Batman and Robin stashed the Batmobile.  Superhero aficionados of all ages – particularly fans of the campy 60’s TV show  – can also cruise to Wayne Manor, better known as Greystone Mansion in the trendy Trousdale area of Beverly Hills.

Bronson Canyon Park trailhead
3200 Canyon Dr.
Los Feliz

Nearby: Nearby Vermont and Hillhurst Avenues boast the best choice for window-shopping and healthy sidewalk eateries, including Alcove Café and Home.

Greystone Mansion
905 Loma Vista Dr.
Beverly Hills

Nearby: After a romp around the Greystone grounds, expose your mini media mavens a clip or two at the Museum of Broadcasting on Beverly Drive, close to Tom’s Toys, Ice Cream Lab and Sprinkles flagship store.

“Gilligan’s Island” Harbor
The shipwrecked S.S. Minnow was the premise for the entertaining antics of Gilligan, the Skipper, his crew and 3-hour tour passengers.  The series filmed in Hawaii during its inaugural season, but the boat returned to roost in Marina Del Rey during the 2nd season, where Fisherman’s Village served at setting for the opening credits. With the site now being overhauled, landlubbing little ones can wander the gangway leading to the slip where the small craft supposedly stayed during its time at dock.

Fisherman’s Village
13755 Fiji Way
Marina Del Rey

Nearby: Burton Chace Park is a local hangout for kite-flying, summer concerts and a knockout view of the Marina harbor. Stroll down to Waterside Mall for a quick bite at Sugarfish, Mendocino Farms, The Counter or other family-friendly spots.

Happy Days
“Happy Days” House
Sunday, Monday, anyday 50s fans and friends of the Fonz can catch a glimpse of the Cunningham’s house on Cahuenga in the Wilshire district not far from Paramount Studios. The Hancock Park home is atypical of SoCal architecture, picture-perfect for the Midwestern Milwaukee locale where Happy Days was set.

565 No. Cahuenga Blvd.
Los Angeles

Nearby: Koreatown rocks the Miracle Mile with the Korean Cultural Center, shopping centers, BBQ and boba.

article-0-0BF3DDF700000578-129_634x481

“The Beverly Hillbillies” Mansion
Jed Clampett cruised into Beverly Hills in his ancient backwoods jalopy, right up to this site that’s actually not in Beverly Hills, but rather in nearby Bel Air. Formerly known as Kirkeby Mansion, the main residence has since been reconstructed, now with an underground garage (which would have served the Clampett family well). Ellie May’s pet critters may still lurk in the bushes, though the original ornamental gate is gone.

750 Bel Air Rd.
Bel Air

Nearby neighborhood: The Glen Center at the top of Beverly Glen is an unharried destination for a light lunch at Charlie’s Pantry, with its old-school (albeit marble) counter and homemade meringues, smoothies and juices. Steps away is Glen Kids with a swoon-worthy selection of fun fashion for itty-bitty babes to trendy tweens.

Townsnd Agency
“Charlie’s Angels” Townsend Agency
The mysterious Svengali-like presence of Charlie Townsend was (almost) as compelling as the unorthodox detectives he supervised in each episode. The classic brick facade of Charlie’s agency stands at So. Robertson Blvd in Beverly Hills, now painted with a glossy black door and red awnings for a European appliance manufacturer. Some remember it best as the show that launched more haircuts than a Friends’ episode and more posters than Kate Upton may sell in her lifetime.  Now housing a Miele showroom, stop in for a quiet vacuum demo or the latest in dishwasher tech.  Or strike a pose, Angel style.

193 S. Robertson Blvd. (at Clifton Way)
Beverly Hills

Nearby: Delectable treats await on Beverly Drive at Bouchon Bakery. Soak up sun in the adjacent park while the kiddos run through the grass and study the fountains.

little-house-on-the-prairie-tv-series

Little House on the Prairie
Spanning 10 years on the small screen, Little House was a part of many of our childhoods. Big Sky Ranch in Simi Valley served as stand-in for the real-life trials and tribulations of the Ingalls family. Originally published in the 30s, Ingalls Wilder’s stories sprung to life due in large part to Michael Landon who produced the popular drama from the mid 70s to mid 80s. (And just might be the reason our moms would watch the show with us!) The ranch continues to play a starring role in TV and features, recently seen in Saving Mr. Banks as P.L. Travers’ Australian home.

Big Sky Movie Ranch
4927 Bennett Rd.
Simi Valley

Nearby: Continue on 118 West to 23 South to visit the Reagan Presidential Library

– Kim Orchen Cooper

Photo credits: LA Arboretum’s facebook page, yelp, and Horror Taxi via flickr.

 

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion Gingerbread House Is Deliciously Creepy-Looking

by Shahrzad Warkentin

The Halloween season is officially in full swing at the Happiest Place on Earth—which means it’s time to enjoy one of Disney’s best Halloween traditions: Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion Gingerbread House. Read on to see all of the spooktacular photos of this one-of-a-kind tradition.

Disneyland is celebrating its 18th season of its Haunted Mansion Holiday. This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the release of Tim Burton’s A Nightmare Before Christmas—which serves as the delightfully creepy inspiration for the Haunted Mansion’s revamped holiday look from Halloween through January of each year.

A gigantic haunted gingerbread house is always part of the ghostly festivities, with the house sitting as a creepy, but tasty-looking, centerpiece on the dining table in the Grand Hall. The house, which features a 5-foot gingerbread spider suspended above it, took 12 pastry chefs at the Disneyland Central Bakery over a month to complete. The team used 90 pounds of gingerbread, 30 pounds of confectioner’s sugar and 45 pounds of fondant to complete this year’s house.

“We wanted to create a monster movie vibe, and a scary spider is a classic and iconic Halloween image,” said Tim Wollweber, associate art director for Disney Parks. But the fun doesn’t just stop at the clutches of one hungry spider.

“With that in mind, we designed a giant 5-foot spider with eerie glowing eyes and moving legs and mandibles. This multicolor spider is suspended above the Haunted Mansion’s Grand Hall table, attempting to pry the edible mansion from its foundation, revealing candy cane rebar and sparking lights. General chaos ensues as gingerbread zombies watch in astonishment and cocoon-wrapped gingerbread zombies wait to become spider snacks.” Whoa!

Visitors to the Haunted Mansion can catch a glimpse of the Gingerbread House from now until January 2019.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of Disneyland

 

RELATED STORIES:

Forget Halloween—Mouse Ear Hat Christmas Ornaments Have Arrived at Disney Parks

These Pumpkin Spice Treats at Disneyland Mean Fall Has Unofficially Arrived

Disney’s Halloween High Tea Features Some Truly Villainous Delights

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

5 Portland Behind-the-Scenes Tours You Have to Try

by Jenni Bost

That look when interest is peaked and a desire to learn more is a spark in your child’s eyes is one that parents know and search for with each new experience. When that spark has been ignited, whether by animals at the zoo or a new-found love of the unknown, a more in-depth glimpse can be an educational and exciting experience for the whole family. Read on to see five (plus!) behind-the-scene encounters in the Portland-area.

Oregon Zoo Encounters and Experiences

Michael Durham via The Oregon Zoo

Animal-lovers get an up-close look at their favorite animals and the ability to learn from the keepers that handle them at the Animal Encounters and Experiences at the Oregon Zoo. Experience life inside the Insect Zoo at The Bug Encounter. Experience barn animals in the Family Farm Experience. Feed African Tortoises during Tortoise Time. Other encounters include: Porcupine Encounter, Sloth Encounter, The Macaw Experience, and Sea Otter Encounter.

Cost: Ranges from $10-$100 per person depending on the chosen experience
Details: Animal encounters take place between April 1 and Labor Day. Check for availability for your chosen behind-the-scenes experiences on the Oregon Zoo website.
4001 SW Canyon Rd.
Portland, OR
503-226-1561
Online: oregonzoo.org/encounters

Chocolate Decadence Tour

Portland Walking Tours

Do you have a family full of chocoholics? Portland is chock-full of chocolatiers making some of the most delicious truffles, bars, drinks, and more. Portland Walking Tours offers a delicious look at some of the best of the best in Portland chocolatiers. Guests will enjoy treats at six to eight locations getting a behind-the-scenes look at how chocolate concoctions are sourced and created. 
 
Cost: $59 All Ages (Note: Some of the locations serve alcohol and guests under the age of 21 can join, but will be served non-alcoholic beverages.) 
Details: The walking tour takes less than 2.5 hours and is less than 1.5 miles of walking with no hills and 15 stairs. The all-ages tours are Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 3:30 PM. 
701 SW 6th Ave. 
Portland, OR
503-774-4522

LAIKA Sundays

Steven Wong Jr. via Portland Art Museum

Whether your little one is a budding animator or just a fan of animated films, they’ll enjoy the family-inclusive tour and immersive look into the LAIKA animation process. Portland Art Museum (PAM) and its Northwest Film Center presents Animating Life: The Art, Science, and Wonder of LAIKA. The October 217 to May 20, 2018 exhibition focuses on a behind-the-curtain look into the artistry and technology of the animation studio that brought us films such as Coraline (2009), ParaNorman (2012), The Boxtrolls (2014), and Kubo and the Two Strings (2016). 
 
For a deeper look into the LAIKA studios join PAM each third Sunday through May 2018  for a day of all things LAIKA Studios. Each LAIKA Sunday will include opportunities to meet some of the artists who make the magic happen, get creative with some analog animation activities, participate in a LAIKA-inspired family tour, and even watch a LAIKA film or other classic animated work. 
 
Note: The exhibition contains a zoetrope that produces a strobing effect and may trigger visitors with photosensitivity or epilepsy. 
 
Cost: Free with Cost of Admission to the Portland Art Museum. PAM members receive  free admission. Non-member admission costs are as follows: Adult, $19.99; Student, $16.99, Seniors 62+, $16.99; Child 17 and under, free. 
Details: Visit the LAIKA exhibit any time, but get the full-day LAIKA experience at LAIKA Sundays. LAIKA Sundays are every third Sunday from February to May 2018. 
1219 SW Park Avenue
Portland, OR 
503-226-2811

Beyond Bizarre Ghost Tour

Portland Walking Tours

Part of Portland’s lore, and part of what keeps the city weird, is that the city is haunted. The Beyond Bizarre Ghost Tour from Portland Walking Tours is an all-ages exploration of Portland’s most ghostly places. The paranormal-loving family will enjoy using ghost-hunting equipment and getting a behind the scenes look at Portland-area hauntings.

Sound fun, but too spooky for the whole family? Try the 18-and-over tour for a spooky date night.

Cost: $23 Adults, $19 Senior (65 & up) and Youth (11-17), $9 Child (5-10), $0 Tots
Details: The walking tour takes less than 2.5 hours and is less than 1.5 miles of walking with no hills and limited stairs. The all-ages tours are scheduled on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings at 6 PM. The 18-and-over only tours are the same evenings beginning at 9 PM.
131 NW 2nd Ave.
Portland, OR
503-774-4522
Online: portlandwalkingtours.com 

Behind-the-Doors Look at Pittock Mansion

Jim Bahn via Flickr

Ever visit the historic Pittock Mansion and wish you could see the rest of the house? Explore areas of the Mansion not ordinarily open to the public including basement passages, Henry Pittock’s private den, the Otis elevator room, and more. This behind-the-scenes tour is not recommended for children under 14.

Cost: Members $7, Non-members $19
Details: Reservations required for this unique look at Pittock Mansion. The tour is designed for ages 14+. Tours are hourly from 10 AM to 3 PM April 28, May 26, and June 30, 2018.
3229 NW Pittock Drive
Portland, OR
503-823-3623
Online: pittockmansion.org

Have a slightly younger history-buff? Children ages 8-12 may enjoy a look at life in 1914 where day-campers go back to experience what life was like 100 years ago.

Cost: Members $25, Non-members $35
Details: Reservations are required for this day camp designed for children ages 8-12. The day begins with a tour of Pittock Mansion’s 23 treasure-filled rooms and areas not ordinarily open to the public. They then will try their hand at turn-of-the-century skills. The camp runs from 9 AM to 12:30 PM on July 17th or 18th.
3229 NW Pittock Drive
Portland, OR
503-823-3623
Online: pittockmansion.org 

Which behind the scenes look would you and your family most like to see? Share in the comment section below! 

—Jenni Bost

RELATED STORIES

Family-Friendly Oregon Wineries & Wine Tasting Tours

Fun Boat Rides in Portland 

Free Food Factory Tours in Oregon

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

10 Classic Games Every Kid Should Master

by Emily Myers

The newest and coolest games for kids promise to teach creativity and cooperation, but it’s a rare grandparent who’ll happily sit down to a session of Robot Turtles without asking a dozen questions. That’s where classic games come in. They’re engaging for the whole family but come without long explanations and pages of rules. We found our favorites and shared them below. Talk about winning game night!

photo: Chess4Life

1. Chess
This ancient game of strategy is popular with millions of people around the world. While the individual moves of the chess pieces might be hard for little ones to remember, the goal is simple—to win by trapping your opponent’s king. It’s a two-player game that gets kids thinking deeply and lasts 10 minutes to an hour, depending on experience.

Buy it here.

2. Rummy
Nothing could be simpler than a game of cards, and Rummy involves the fairly easy task of grouping ones that match— something even little ones can do once they’ve mastered actually holding them!  If you’re rusty on the rules it might be because there are dozens of variations, but once the kids have mastered Rummy it’s a quick leap to playing Rummikub which also has a junior version for younger players.

Buy it here.

photo: Emily Meyers

3. Monopoly
Financial ruin is never a good thing, but this game has a popularity that just keeps on growing. Hundreds of cities have their own versions, and it’s printed in at least thirty-seven languages. With a roll of the dice, players hustle to develop properties and charge rent while hoping to be the last to face jail and bankruptcy. Plan on counting up your assets after a certain amount of time or be prepared for the long haul because a game can last for hours!

Buy it here.

4. Pictionary
Thirty years ago, Pictionary brought Charades to the table—with artwork replacing mime. Players of all ages race against the timer to identify what their teammates are drawing. This game is great for big family gatherings as all-age teams can work together to move counters based on the success they have at drawing and guessing.

Buy it here.

photo: Liz West via Flickr

5. Scrabble
This classic word game has players earning points not just for the words created, but where they are placed on the board. For alternative versions, skip scoring and just enjoy watching the words take shape on the board, or team up in pairs to help younger spellers build their vocab. Scrabble’s junior edition involves matching tiles to a pre-written grid, and once the kids outgrow the board, they can flip it over to find the more advanced original grid on the other side.

 

6. Sorry!
Call it Sorry!, Ludo, Pachisi or Coppit, the idea’s the same; players move their pieces around the board trying to be the first to get them all “home.” The name Sorry! comes from the number of times an apology needs to be issued as players trip each other up in the race around the board. Fast and fun, this is a winning game for families.

Buy it here.

photo: Emily Meyers

7. Clue
This compelling murder mystery game is far from scary. Watch the kids turn detective as they try to work out the missing cards and deduce who has done something dastardly in the Clue mansion. Was it Colonel Mustard in the ballroom with the dagger? Younger sleuths might need tips on how to speed up their calculations as the family races to see who will be the first to uncover the details of the crime.

Buy it here.

8. Tiddlywinks
Use your squidger to flip winks and try squopping your opponent in the process (translation: flip plastic coins into a central pot and try to land on your opponents’ coins so they can’t score). Tiddlywinks is at least a hundred years old, and although it might sound confusing (and boasts several Tiddlywinks Associations), it’s easy entertainment for all ages, even if you don’t master the terminology!

Buy it here.

photo: Emily Meyers

9. Connect 4
This 3D Tic Tac Toe on an upright board has been a household favorite for forty years and is still as popular as ever. Two players take turns dropping discs into a grid and try to get four in a row. With instructions this simple it’s no wonder it’s addictive family entertainment.

Buy it here.

10. Checkers
Played on the same board as Chess but with counters instead of pieces, the strategy game of Checkers (or Draughts) is hundreds of years old. Move pieces forward diagonally and capture your opponent’s pieces by leaping over them. Get one of your own counters to the other side of the board and they earn superpowers!

Buy it here.

You’ll Also Love:

11 New Games to Get You Through the Winter

11 Classic Games to Banish the Sick Day Blues

’90s Board Games You Wish Your Kids Played

Which classic board game is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.

—Emily Myers

games
Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Give Them a Horse (or 40) for Christmas: Cavalia’s Odysseo

by Erin Feher

If you have a little horse or pony lover in your family, we have a gift idea that is just as magical as getting them their own mare—but far less messy. Odysseo by Cavalia is in town until January 10, and this exquisite show will transport the whole family into a horse wonderland for the night. Starring aerialists, dancers, singers, musicians and 44 stunning horses, Odysseo will amaze crowds of all ages.

A Beguiling Big Top
You may have seen the castle-like all-white big top that rose in the large parking lot behind AT&T Park. And while spending a chilly night inside a tent may not sound luxurious, this is no ordinary tent. More like pop-up mansion, this enclosure has it all, from art, to dining facilities to stables to a theater that seats 2,000. And plenty of heaters, of course. The big top spans over 47,000 square feet, and reaches 125 feet into the sky. To truly experience all the big top has to offer, tack the VIP experience onto your ticket. You will be invited into the VIP Rendezvous tent up 90 minutes before showtime and enjoy a lavish dinner buffet, unlimited beverages (beer and wine included) and even freshly popped popcorn to enjoy during the show. Best of all, you have access to the tent the entire evening, so you can refresh your drink, re-up on popcorn, grab dessert at intermission or take advantage of the private restrooms. VIP ticket holders are also invited to take a stable tour and meet the stars after the show.

A Show-Stopping Set Up
Three massive movie screens help to create the magical worlds during each show. Throughout the performance, the audience is transported to the savannas of Africa, the American Southwest, the Northern Lights, an ice cave, an exquisite carousel, and even Easter Island. 19 projectors and more than 200 moving lights enhance the stage sets, which include 6,000 tons of dirt and stone and a 53,000 gallon lake. But it’s the immensely talented performers who really make the show, from acrobats to horseback riders to musicians, to the horses themselves. All music is performed live, and the high energy performances will leave audiences captivated. Horse aficionados will marvel at the skills demonstrated by the four-legged member of the cast, while everyone will be wowed by the jumping, flipping singing and spinning of everyone else.

Fun for Families
This is a show appropriate for almost all ages. The loud, high-energy show is forgiving of chatty toddlers, and the lights, music and visuals will keep even the squirmiest kid captivated throughout the entire show. There are kid-friendly showtimes almost week (matinees at 1:30, 2 or 4 pm) and for older kids with later bedtimes, the 8 p.m. show is a great option. Ticket prices are $10-20 cheaper for kids aged 2-12. The stories are told through song and dance, so even subject matter such as war is told so subtly that there’s nothing to upset even the most sensitive child (and the overall message of the performance is one of peace, harmony and the greatest respect for animals).

Odysseo by Cavalia
Through Jan 10
AT&T Park
1051 Third St.
San Francisco, CA
Online: cavalia.net

Have you experienced Odysseo? What was your family’s favorite part of the show? 

–Erin Feher

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Brainy Activities That’ll Pump Them Up

by Suzie Ridgway

Give those brains a jump start for the new school year by taking your little ones to learn about science, sturgeon, swifts, Portland history and heavy machinery. The following activities are sure to lift the summer brain fog and offer a dose of serious fun. Read on to take a peek at a few of our favorites educational outings around Portland.

photo: OMSI, courtesy Joshin Yamada via Flickr Creative Commons

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
With a massive space, that includes a planetarium, movie theater, submarine and pop-culture-savvy exhibits, OMSI is typically one of the first places that comes to mind for those looking for brainy activities in Portland.

The museum houses five halls and over 200 interactive exhibits and labs, including Earth Hall, Life Hall, Turbine Hall, a science playground for the six and under set, and labs on life science, watershed, chemistry, physics, technology and paleontology. Just a sampling of the activities at OMSI include programming a robot, feeling an earthquake, building an aqueduct, safely mixing and pouring chemicals, making flubber, and playing at a water table and massive sand area. In addition to constantly changing the activities at individual labs, OMSI also offers a rotating main exhibit.

1945 SE Water Ave.
800-955-6674
Online: omsi.edu

 photo: Bonneville Hatchery, courtesy USFWS Pacific Region via Flickr Creative Commons

Bonneville Hatchery
The hatchery could either be part of a larger day trip, complete with a hike in the Gorge, or you can just make that your destination. The park-like setting is definitely picnic worthy, and the staff can tell you and your budding scientist all about the fish. It’ll cost you a quarter to feed the rainbow trout, and you can head down to the special “house” made for hatchery star, Herman the sturgeon, a 425-pound, 10-foot, 70-year-old behemoth. Those visiting in October or November will get the added bonus of watching millions of salmon spawning. The hatchery is free to visit, and the self-guided tours make the atmosphere pretty laid-back. The hatchery is open daily (except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day).

70543 NE Herman Loop
Cascade Locks
541-374-8393
Online: dfw.state.or.us

Vaux Swifts at Chapman Elementary
Every September, the Chapman Elementary school grounds come alive at dusk as thousands of Vaux Swifts swirl and chatter, pouring into the chimney to roost at night, as they prepare for their long migration to Central America and Venezuela. To get in on the action, arrive at least one hour before sunset and bring a picnic blanket and snacks. Weeknights will be less crowded, but there is usually plenty of space on the grounds for everyone. Most nights, Audubon Society of Portland volunteers make themselves available for impromptu education sessions. Free parking is available at Montgomery Park and after 5:30 p.m. at Selco Community Credit Union. Be sure to bring a piece of cardboard for sledding down the steep, grassy hill.

1445 NW 26th Ave.
503-292-6855
Online: audubonportland.org

photo: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, courtesy Mobilus in Mobili via Flickr Creative Commons 

Oregon Rail Heritage Center
If your family is more geared toward machinery than biology, the Oregon Rail Heritage Center might be your new favorite place.This working museum allows visitors to roam among vintage steel beasts as they are serviced and rebuilt, lending the place a bit of the energetic vibe that kids love. There are also docents available for guided tours, as well as a kids’ play area, rotating exhibits and a gift shop. Hands-on learners will be excited to climb aboard a caboose and are encouraged to explore the interior. While the museum itself is free to visit, those who come on Saturday might consider bringing $5/person to ride the Oregon Pacific Railroad passenger train on a short, 45-minute round trip to Oaks Bottom Park. The center is open Thursday through Sunday.

2250 SE Water Ave.
503-233-1156
Online: orhf.org

 

photo: Pittock Mansion, courtesy Glen Bledsoe via Flickr Creative Commons

Pittock Mansion
Got a little local-history buff on your hands, or maybe a fledgling architect? Then how about a stop at Pittock Mansion for a peek into Portland of the past as well as one of Oregon’s most influential pioneer families? Built in 1914, the mansion was the residence of the founder of the Oregonian newspaper, Henry Pittock and his wife Georgiana. The palacial estate is now held in public trust by the City of Portland. It’s free to park at the museum and the grounds are free to tour, offering stunning views of the city as well as Mt. Hood. Those who want to tour the 22-rooms of the mansion can do so by purchasing tickets ($10 for adults, $9 for seniors 65 and up, $7 for kids six to 18, and free for children under six), with guided and self-guided tours available. The Renaissance Revival architecture is complemented by period furnishings, many of them the original belongings of the Pittocks themselves. The museum is open daily 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. between September and June and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. between July and August.

3229 NW Pittock Dr.
503-823-3623
Online: pittockmansion.org

Where do you go when you want a kid-friendly activity with a little bonus brain boost? Let us know in the Comments section below.

— Ty Adams and Suzie Ridgway

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Hidden Parks & Gardens of the Peninsula

by Jenn Wade

You spent summer splashing around Stafford Park, picnicked and played at Washington Park, and ventured to the Junior Museum & Zoo at Rinconada Park. Now what? Time to check out the Peninsula’s hidden gems. They may be just around the corner from your house or a few short miles from your family’s favorite hood. Either way, these (formerly) secret spots are worth exploring!

Kohl Mansion, Burlingame

Why it’s great: The 100 year old estate’s English rose garden will allow you to indulge in the fantasy of a refined afternoon drinking tea and eating finger sandwiches (that aren’t PB&J). Once you come back to reality, it’s still a pretty dreamy place. The rose garden is shaped like a maze making it perfect for hide and seek while manicured lawns, a fountain with live fish, majestic oaks and a creek provide endless entertainment.

Where: 2750 Adeline Dr., Burlingame. Entrances at Hoover or Alvarado Sts.

Good to know: It’s also the location of Mercy High School and gets busy during drop-off and pick-up periods.

Photo Credit: Jenn Wade

Have other hidden gem suggestions for Peninsula parents? Be sure to share them in the comments.

—Jenn Wade

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Game On! Old School Games That Still Rock

by laurie halter

Did you sink a Battleship or Guess Who as a kid? Perhaps you had a Clue it was Mrs. Peacock in the study with the rope as you prepared to Operate on the guy with the big red nose?  If these sentences don’t have you scratching your head, you are a child of the pre-iPad era and know that back then board games were big business.  Below are a few of our faves old school game picks. Let us know in the comment section below if we missed your choice nostalgic game.

Rubix Cube

Any of you who remember this torture device probably also remember peeling off the colored stickers in order to re-stick them when that last blasted line didn’t match up!  How did colored, plastic squares hold so much power over us as kids?

 (Photo courtesy of Gracedustin via Flickr)

Clue

If you knew it was Professor Plum in the Library with the candlestick, then you grew up with a steady diet of mystery sleuthing playing Clue as a kid. Whether Mrs. Peacock is your go-to gal or old Mr. Cranky pants, Colonel Mustard, Clue remains a fave among Gen X and Y parents.

 (Photo courtesy of Chris Corwin via Flickr)

Life

Ah… if only in real life you could buy a sports car, marry the guy of your dreams and move into a mansion with the spin of the numbered wheel. You’re on cloud nine, until…the dreaded “Taxes Due” spot!  The board game Life ushered many young girls and boys into the trials and tribulations of being a grown up, if only for a short time, while taking a ride in their favorite plastic car.

(Photo courtesy of  LifeSupercharger via Flickr)

Simon

Flash green, flash blue, flash blue, flash red, repeat… faster. Are your hands sweating yet? If so, you probably watched every kid in the rumble seat of their family car matching wits with Simon.  Now, nearly 35 years later, you’re more likely to find it in iPad form than a clunky piece of plastic, but the game itself continues to instill anxiety in the hearts of children everywhere.

 (Photo provided by Toywhirl via Flickr)

Mouse Trap

It seems you can, in fact, build a better mousetrap and this game helped children the nation over try to outwit their opponent at it.

 (Photo courtesy of Squiggle via Flickr)

Perfection

The last plastic piece is almost in its matching tile when BOOM – the entire board is thrown in the air and the alarm sounds. The minute is over and the player has not in any way reached Perfection. Let’s just rename this little beauty, “the heart attack.”

 (Photo courtesy of Jronaldlee via Flickr)

Battleship

If you’ve ever shouted the battle cry, “You sunk my battleship” you have been through the rigors of the strategic game of little grey plastic boats. Remember placing the ships as close together as possible to make it seem like the biggest ship had been found?

 (Photo courtesy of nworbleahcim via Flickr)

Chutes and Ladders

Chutes and Ladders was an early lesson in winning (up the ladder you go) and losing (down the ladder you slide, and to make it interesting, let’s add a broken plate of cookies.) And just when you thought you had made it to the winning square? More often than not, the result was that last long slide to the bottom.

(Photo courtesy of Ben Husmann via Flickr)

Guess Who?

Who else thought the people on the cards in this guessing game really could talk based on the commercials promoting it during our youth?  What a letdown to open the box and realize that instead of a grandma saying, “Can you guess who? “, it was really just a deduction game based on facial features.

(Photo courtesy of Ben Sutherland via Flickr)

Operation

Ushering a whole generation of young imaginary surgeons, Operation not only let kids of the 80s and 90s operate on a character, but freak out at the smallest hint of a trembling hand.

(Photo courtesy of Pernell via Flickr)
 
 

What board games most remind you of your childhood?

— Laurie Halter

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

The 2 Best Parks You’ve Never Been To

by sommy rhee

Google “kid-friendly parks in Los Angeles.”  Go ahead, we’ll wait.  Or we’ll save you the trouble: you’ll find lots of the same old familiar parks where you’ve probably play-dated plenty.  What you won’t find is either of these two hidden gems: Barnsdall Park and Greystone Mansion Park. Even their names sound very grown-up.  And at first glance, they both seem like beautiful, romantic places perfect for a doting, artsy couple in the honeymoon days of their relationship (yes, we were there once too).  But once you uncover what these parks have to offer, you’ll soon realize that they are both oft-overlooked family friendly spots that offers gorgeous outdoor views as well as fun attractions for the kids.  So this weekend take the family to explore one of these parks (instead of hitting the one down the street for the umpteenth time, the one where your kids take off for the jungle gym and you browse your iPhone) – we think they’ll become new favorite destinations.

Greystone Mansion & Park
Greystone Mansion was built by an oil magnate in 1927 and is a real piece of LA history.  The kids will get a kick out of visiting this castle-like structure (called Greystone because of all the grey stone used to build it – just like a castle!) with impressive grounds that include ponds with turtles and koi.  When driving up to the entrance be sure to look for a small green sign that says, Greystone Park Entrance, which marks the drive uphill to the spacious and free parking lot.


Once parked, head for the winding stairs, which are accessorized with cool plants of all sorts, including greens that are unconventionally planted on top of mini roofs.

Visit the many koi ponds that they have on the grounds.  The kids can sit for hours just observing the fish, baby tadpoles, and sun-basking turtles.

Equip the kids with comfortable shoes since there are a lot of paved paths great for strolling (but not great for strollers, so if you’ve got pre-walkers, don’t forget the baby carriers).  When you wander, don’t forget to stop and enjoy gorgeous views of Beverly Hills and beyond.

Being a little known spot means that this is a wonderful park to come to on a hot day – it’s rarely crowded and you can always find a place for a blanket under a shady tree to curl up with books, or watch the kids run around.  And don’t forget the cameras – there are tons of beautiful backdrops for family portraits or pictures of the kids (especially if they’re wearing their knight or princess costumes, as they’ll look right at home with the castle-like mansion in the background).  And check out the website for special events hosted here: car shows, tea time on the terrace, foodie classes for grownups and special summer music concerts all take place throughout the year.

Potty Presence
When you park, you may wish to note that the bathrooms are located at the bottom of the stairs next to the koi pond before you get to the mansion. This is convenient when you first arrive, and not as handy once you’ve started wandering.  You might want to make a pit stop upon arrival…

Greystone Mansion & Park
905 Loma Vista Drive
Beverly Hills, Ca
Phone: 310-286-0119
Online: greystonemansion.org
Hours: Daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Barnsdall Park
Located in the Hollywood/Los Feliz area is a surprisingly peaceful, kid-friendly park with loads of free parking.  Upon entering the park, you can park at the ground level or drive up the hill to park closer to the art gallery and grounds. (If you are toting your kids and your stroller, we definitely suggest parking at the top of the hill.)

There is a large sunny lawn area for the kids to run around and catch some amazing views of the city.  Play “I Spy” with the kiddos and see if they can spot the Hollywood sign or the Griffith Observatory from afar.

Sun or shade?  This park has both.  When you need a break from the sunshine, grassy play, and spectacular views in front of the Hollyhock House (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright), move to the shady side in front of the Art Gallery, where you can get a little respite from the heat.  This side also has nice paths for scooters and little bikes.  And every Sunday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm kids can let their creative minds loose at the free family art workshops that are open to the public .

In addition to the free weekend art classes, daily art classes for kids (and adults) are also offered varying by age and topic (and at very reasonable city-subsidized fees).  Check the website for the most recent list of classes here.


Barnsdall Park also offers wine tastings at the Hollyhock House (curated by Silverlake Wine) on Friday afternoons all summer, that offer juice boxes & crafts to the kids, and food trucks & hipster DJs spinning tunes for all.  You can always take a tour of the Municipal Art Gallery that houses some of Southern California’s rising stars in the art world or tour the Hollyhock House, also known as architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s very first project in Los Angeles.  Still need a reason to visit?  If you happen come on Wednesdays from 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm you can stock up on fresh fruits and veggies and enjoy an impromptu picnic at the farmer’s market.

Potty Presence
There is a spacious bathroom located right across from the Junior Arts Studio, but be sure to ask for the key from the Junior Arts Studio. When the studio is closed, don’t panic, take the kids to the bathroom located inside the Municipal Art Gallery. (Potty training parents please note that if both the Junior Arts Studio and the Municipal Art Gallery are closed, there are no outside public bathrooms.)

Barnsdall Park
4800 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, Ca
Phone: 323-660-4254
Online: barnsdall.org
Hours: Daily 5:00 am-10:00 pm

When did you last go to either of these picturesque parks?

— Sommy Rhee

Images courtesy of Sommy herself!

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement