From fill-your-own-bags to nostalgic candy like Laffy Taffy—here are the best spots for sweets that San Diego has to offer
The bright colors and sweet smells of a candy store can be quite a magical experience for kiddos, so we’ve searched high and low for the most delightful local candy shops to wow your little sweethearts. Whether you are in the mood for a nostalgic candy cottage or a bright and trendy shop, we’ve got you covered! Scroll down for some sweet-tooth satisfying inspiration.
Over-sized gummy bears and giant boxes of marshmallows put this quirky candy store on the map. You'll also find standard-sized sweets to satisfy. We love this brightly colored store where you can fill up your bag from the vast selections in the candy bins.
Various locations throughout San Diego Online:itsugar.com
2. Carlsbad Chocolate Bar
A candy store and chocolate bar all rolled into one! You'll find both handmade and imported treats, like dark chocolate-covered caramels and peanut butter cups. Your little sweet thing may go for the candy bins with gummy sharks and sour treats. Either way, add a gourmet coffee and cocoa and you've capped off a nice fam dinner date.
Although a luxury candy store geared for adults, kids love Sugarfina sweets too! In addition to using gourmet ingredients from around the world in their sweets at Sugarfina, we love the gummies shaped like ice cream cones and flamingos! Littles love the sugar lips and the birthday cake caramels. Who wouldn't?
4545 La Jolla Village Dr., #H-18 San Diego Online:sugarfina.com
4. Balboa Candy
A family-run nostalgic shop with a nice selection of old favorites like Laffy Taffy and new items like gummy pizza. This shop has one of the largest saltwater taffy selections in the world, so it's no surprise that they have barrels and barrels of taffy in unique flavors.
There are plenty of cute photo-ops at this vibrant candy store where you'll find bins of gummy bears, sourballs, Twizzlers, and Swedish fish. Additionally, this sweet shop has toys, ice cream, and cupcakes. So, when you stop by with the littles, everyone leaves with a big smile on their face.
3100 East Coast Hwy. Corona del Mar Online:bcandy.com
6. Beach Sweets
San Diego is a seaside city, which means San Diegans know a thing or two about saltwater taffy. We’re happy to report that Beach Sweets, located in Ocean Beach, offers taffy that even the most critical taffy lover will adore. It is a quintessential candy shop that's reminiscent of simpler times. Kids will love browsing the eclectic selection of candy and homemade chocolates. Beach Sweets will have you understanding the phrase, “like a kid in a candy store” like never before.
Sweet Tip: One of their signature treats is called 'Wipeout' and it's too good to pass up. It’s Rice Krispies cereal, peanut butter, marshmallow, and white chocolate, (aka pure heaven!).
This darling candy shop is a hidden gem in Liberty Public Market. It's the perfect spot for dessert after dining at the marketplace. You'll find bins of gummy bears, sharks, chocolates, and more. Be sure to try the fresh organic cotton candy.
2820 Historic Decatur Rd. San Diego Online:instagram.com
8. Candyland
Stop here before heading to the movies and (other family outings). Stock up on Fun Dip, Red Vines, and other movie-sized boxes. Moreover, they have a nice selection of Mexican candy and good prices.
356 W. Valley Pkwy. Escondido Online: facebook.com
9. Cousin's Candy
Candy shops have a tendency to conjure up nostalgia and none do it better than Cousins Candy in Old Town San Diego’s Historic Park. This shop is almost as much about the experience as it is about the delicious candy. The staff wears aprons and are there to chat with you rather than just ring you up. Pull candy from barrels and find some of the best licorice you’ll ever taste.
Over 1000 varieties of candy to create your own bag of sweetness. You'll find Sour Patch Kids, chocolate-covered gummy bears, saltwater taffy, and chocolate-covered raisins to name a few. They also offer vegan chocolates and homemade fudge!
This pint-sized gem right in downtown Coronado overflows with sweet goodness. Grab a long gooey gummy worm, scarf down the yummy saltwater taffy and bite into a caramel apple with sprinkles. Known for unique items, you'll even find silver and gold-colored M & M's. Further, your sweet thing can pack a famous Fuzziwig's baggie full of their favorite treats.
Sweet Tip: Try the Coronado Crunch. This sweet homage to their hometown is packed with Rice Krispies, peanut butter, marshmallows, and chocolate.
School's out at this longtime East County candy store where they've been stirring up chocolate since 1912. You'll find delicious caramel macadamia turtles and freshly made fudge. Your crew will love all the chocolate goodies in this hands-on place.
Sweet Tip: Call before you go. The shop is closed Monday through Wednesday.
On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, here are all the best celebrations and local volunteering opportunities for you and your kids around the San Francisco Bay Area
Each year, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Americans unite to honor King’s legacy and tireless work as a champion of civil rights. So when is Martin Luther King Day? MLK Day takes place the third Monday in January each year. Fun fact: King’s actual birthday is January 15 (he was born in 1929). In addition to celebrating King’s legacy, this holiday has also been designated a National Day of Service—encouraging Americans to volunteer and do good in their communities. So whether you want to celebrate MLK at a parade or spend the day giving back to others, here are all the things to do on MLK Day near San Francisco.
Jan. 13-15: The Golden Gates National Parks Conservancy will be celebrating the Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and legacy all weekend with volunteer projects starting on Friday, Jan. 13 at the San Francisco Habitat Stewards, continuing on Jan. 14 at the Presidio Habitat Stewards, and ending on Jan. 15 with Fort Mason Maintenance. Event details.
2. Martin Luther King Weekend at Filoli Gardens
Jan. 15: On Sun., Jan. 15, Filoli’s Stories in Bloom series kicks off with a program featuring Tureeda Ture Ade Mikell, a poet, storyteller, and the author of SYNCHRONICITY: Oracle of Sun Medicine. She will share stories and songs weaving historical accounts of social justice with African American folktales. Event details.
3. 2023 Caltrain NorcalMLK Celebration Train
Jan. 16: The Caltrain NorcalMLK Celebration Train will depart from San Jose's Diridon Station at 9:30am (65 Cahill St., San Jose 95110), making stops at Palo Alto Station at 9:50am (95 University Ave., Palo Alto 94301) and the San Mateo Station at 10:10am (385 First Ave., San Mateo 94401) before heading in to San Francisco by 10:40am. Once there, celebrants will be able to immediately take part in the MLK2023 March or head directly to Yerba Buena Gardens to take part in a full day of festivities. All of the day's events are free and open to the public. Reserve your complimentary commemorative tickets for departure from one of the above stations today, and pick up your tickets at your point of departure on Mon., Jan. 16, one hour before travel. Event details.
4. MLK March and Parade
Jan. 16: Join the 1.5 mile parade to honor those who marched from Selma to Montgomery by marching from San Francisco’s CalTrain station to Yerba Buena Gardens where a music festival will continue the celebration. Event details.
5. Annual MLK2023 Music Festival
Jan. 16: The MLK2023 Music Festival celebrates its thirteenth year, bringing fabulous talents to perform on the Esplanade stage at Yerba Buena Gardens Festival. In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, MLK2023 Music Festival features multi-Grammy Award-winning artist Tony Lindsay, the multi-talented RyanNicole, the spoken word of San Francisco’s Poet Laureate Tongo Eisen-Martin and the comedy of Tony Scott. Enjoy an afternoon of live music with the team from the hit television show "I Remember That Song!" with host, Gerry Dove, and the team of guests, featuring Big Russ and DJ Flash of “The World Famous Rick & Russ Show” and radio personalities and artists. Event details.
Jan. 14: Join Peninsula Open Space Trust and San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory for this fun and unique opportunity to volunteer at Bair Island.Event details.
7. Free Admission at National Parks
Jan. 16: In celebration of Dr. King's birthday, all national parks are waiving admission in the year's first fee free day of the year. Event details.
Jan. 16: Celebrate with MoAD on the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service. The museum will be providing free admission and family activities with the Prescott Circus Theater, Sidewalk Chalk Art with Jamie Treacy and a Scavenger Hunt in the galleries.Event details.
9. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Mitzvah Day 2023
Jan. 16: Bring your friends and family to work together on various fun and meaningful projects to bring to life Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s inspirational legacy of community service, justice and equality for all. Projects will be held in person this year at the Oshman Family JCC, Mitchell Park and a few other satellite locations with an exciting closing ceremony at Mitchell Park. Event details.
10. MLK Jr. Day of Service
Jan. 16: Recreation & Parks is hosting a clean-up at MLK Park (1208 Hendley St.), where volunteers can help beautify this neighborhood park through tasks such as litter pick-up, spreading mulch, weeding and more. Tools and light refreshments will be provided. Event details.
11. Martin Luther King Day at San Tomas Park
Jan. 16: In honor of Martin Luther King Day, the City of San José and Campbell have partnered to help beautify San Tomas Park. Event details.
12. More Volunteer Opportunities in California
To find a volunteering opportunity nearby, visit californiavolunteers.ca.gov and plug in your city or zip code to be connected with various organization searching for in-person or virtual volunteers.
Good to Know: Each year the NorCarl MLK Foundation partners with local and regional transportation agencies to provide transportation with special, commemorative passes, to and from a variety of MLK Day celebration events.
If you live on the peninsula, you can catch the Caltrain NorcalMLK Celebration Train—dedicated to continuing the legacy begun by the late Coretta Scott King by providing special, free commemorative MLK train service for south Bay and peninsula celebrants.
Bay Area Rapid Transit annually commemorates Dr. King by partnering with the NorcalMLK Foundation in developing commemorative MLK BART Passes, which provides complementary, round-trip travel to the MLK Celebrations.
If you live in or near San Francisco, you can register for MLK2023 Muni Commemorative Passes. San Francisco's Municipal Transportation Agency commemorates Dr. King by providing annual passes through NorcalMLK and via complementary shuttle service during the annual MLK march and parade.
Live in Marin? Since 2004 the Golden Gate Transportation Authority has partnered with the NorcalMLK Foundation to provide complimentary service to the MLK Celebration events on TheMLK2023 Freedom Ferry.
Enjoy dining at its finest at these San Diego restaurants where you can eat outside and enjoy the views
Dining al fresco with kids in tow gives your fam more space to spread out while eating outside in a relaxing atmosphere (not to mention the occasional cry or scream is quickly drowned out by the open space). From beautiful San Diego skyline views and spacious patios to urban villages and public markets with roomy outdoor seating, we’ve found something for every taste. Save this article and get ready to discover a new favorite restaurants with outdoor patios in San Diego.
Herb & Sea, located in Encinitas, has unveiled an 1,800-square-foot, bi-level patio built atop their former parking lot. Named for the iconic North County beach just a block away, The Moonlight Deck seats close to 100 diners, creating a magical outdoor dining destination amidst twinkling string lights and ocean breezes. The Moonlight Deck aims to transport guests to the rambling beaches of Cape Cod complete with ramshackle sand fencing and elegant striped umbrellas.
North Italia is a modern Italian eatery best known for its artisanal, hand-crafted Italian cuisine. Committed to providing only the freshest ingredients, the chefs take pride in bringing a wholesome, nutritious meal to families and their loved ones in San Diego and beyond, including fresh, handmade pasta and pizzas. With two locations in San Diego, North Italia offers great al fresco dining perfect for a delicious lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch.
North Italia at Fashion Valley 7055 Friars Rd. San Diego
North Italia at One Paseo 3715 Caminito Ct. Suite 680 San Diego Online:northitalia.com
Head out to Little Italy to dine al fresco. India Street will be closed and transformed to allow dining rooms to expand into the street. There are many restaurants to choose from and the list is expanding so check the website. Two of our family faves are Mimmo’s and Filippi’s Pizza Grotto.
Serẽa is a sea-to-table concept that boasts an expansive two-tiered patio complete with incomparable views. The restaurant has an expansive outdoor patio and amazing ocean views that are almost as good as the food.
Homestead Solana Beach's concept features market staples, scratch-made sandwiches and salads, and a curated selection of beers and wine. An open space perfect for families, they have a menu just for kids that has something every kid will love.
Known for their Mexico City-style tacos, mariscos, and shared plates, Puesto’s location at the Headquarters at Seaport Village allows for plenty of space for dining in with kiddos. The family-owned restaurant with brightly-hued decor has everything to keep both parents and kiddos happy. Their ice cream tacos for dessert will have the littlest taco aficionados raving.
Farm-to-neighborhood eatery located on Park Boulevard, Rusticucina, has a great al fresco patio where diners can sit down and enjoy Sicilian-crafted cuisine featuring pizzas, flatbreads, and in-house pasta. Great for families, there is a kids' menu that includes Cheese Ravioli, Spaghetti & Meatballs, Crispy Chicken Tenders, and Cheese Pizza. Guests can also bring their dogs to the outdoor patio to enjoy a special pet menu.
A community hot spot! Whether you want to order up at the fast-casual food line or grab and go at the market, add in a drink from the bar and it’s time to eat. The large downstairs open area space dubbed the garden pub has a kids' play area and dogs are welcome too. Come earlier on the weekends as you may need to line up and wait to get in.
This village is open for fun! Everyone has choices of what to do and eat at the One Paseo urban village in Carmel Valley. From Shake Shack and Tender Greens to Susie Cakes and Salt & Straw you'll find plenty of food and fancy desserts—makes for a perfect family date spot. Grab food and sit outside with your half-pints in the middle of the village. Save time to check out all the cute shops.
We love spending time in the Point Loma neighborhood and outdoor dining at Liberty Public Market makes a great pit stop with kids. Whether it's a Maine lobster roll or Mastiff sausage you crave, you can wash it all down with a local craft beer. Kids can dig into an array of cuisines from mac 'n cheese to macarons. There's a grass area, boat, and fountain to keep everyone engaged and having fun.
Good food, good brew, and a patio with pretty lights and fireplaces is what to expect at Gravity Heights in Sorrento Valley. Little ones have a special area to play out back. Order up the dirty fries with brisket and bacon-wrapped dates with a local cold brew and you have yourself a date night with the fam.
Relax by the outdoor fire on the bright red couches while your little ones play around you. Grab a nice glass of wine or beer on tap to celebrate the end of the week. Then, chow down the sausage bomb or pepperoni pizza and finish off with a delicious dessert. Enjoy the sparkling lights, good friends, and family fun.
The indoor/outdoor family-style restaurant is part park, part upscale beer garden and it features live entertainment, a treehouse for kiddos to play in, a playground with stump jumpers and a log climb-through, lawn games, air hockey, an 80s combo arcade, and so much more entertainment for the whole crew. Even Fido is welcome on the scene, which is reminiscent of a fantasy backyard oasis.
This unbeatable backdrop is only bested by the relaxing vibe and delicious food and drinks. Kids can run and play in the expansive garden while you sip craft and specialty beer. If your littles have a sophisticated palate, they'll appreciate the elevated kids' menu.
Eat healthy and happy. For one thing, the kids' meal includes a quesadilla, steak, chicken, or grilled cheese, fruit, and mashed potatoes. (That should keep them busy!) Each location has a nice outside patio such as a hydroponic garden or a wood deck. Check out the location near your neighborhood. Enjoy a nice lunch with the crew on the outdoor patio.
Multiple locations: Mission Valley, La Jolla/UTC, Point Loma, Downtown
Sushi on the beach! You'll find 9,400 square feet of fireplaces and lounge seating, plus a perfect ocean view. Order up the lobster rolls and firecracker rolls while having a drink. For little ones, there's a kids' meal with choices like grilled cheese and chicken tenders. Enjoy the good food and the beach view.
Take in the breathtaking views while eating at C Level's over-the-water back deck. Dine on lobster or steak on fire salad and add in Carlsbad mussels for appetizers. Little eaters can go with the mac n' cheese or kid filet mignon depending on their appetite. Everyone wins with the service and scenery. Stroll the gorgeous town of Coronado when you've finished your meal.
Kids get a kick out of watching the pasta-making process before dining al fresco on the outdoor patio while taking in the charming character of this new Italian eatery. Good to order are the short rib pappardelle or the spaghettini with large shrimp on top. Half-pints dig the make-it-yourself pizza off one of the best kids' menus in San Diego.
Sit outside eating modern Mexican cuisine with a panoramic view of the San Diego skyline. Whether it's the grilled local fish Vera Cruz or Puerto Nuevos-style lobster you crave, you'll find it here. The little eater menu is simpler with items like corn dogs, chicken tenders, quesadillas, and tater tots. Even more, they'll enjoy the big kid sundae for dessert.
With a school bus and outdoor chalkboard keeping little ones busy while the rest of the fam relaxes, this good-sized outdoor patio makes for a perfect evening. Bo-beau uses sustainably sourced ingredients to make their dishes like flatbread pizza and their famous Brussels sprouts. Everyone will enjoy this outdoor evening out.
Hit the beach! Pacific Coast Grill has an upscale but laid-back vibe. It's a truly perfect outdoor patio for a family date night or celebrations where you can eat well and have fun. To start, request a ground-level patio table so that littles can play in the sand while you enjoy the sweeping ocean views. Even more, if it's high-end seafood you're craving, then this is your place. From lobster rolls to coconut crab-crusted Mahi Mahi, the food is fresh and yummy. Plus, there's a nice kids' menu to feed their little tummies.
Catch the waves! Eat outdoors with a partial ocean view in this Del Mar restaurant. Lunch on gyros and end with the delish baklava ice cream cake. Also, they accommodate kiddos with faves like chicken and pizza. Depending on the weather, the balcony has both shade and heat lamps.
Clocking in at 61,000 square feet, you'll find plenty of room to move around this brew house. Also, with two outdoor patios, there's time to enjoy the San Diego sun. Moreover, half-pints can run, play checkers, sandbag toss and win at the giant Jenga game. All while you enjoy the bar food, like bleu cheese sliders, grilled salmon, and cheesy fries with a pint of local craft brew. Plus, there's a kids' menu too.
Trade in your shopping bags for exciting plans with these great gift experiences in Los Angeles you can’t get anywhere else
Like anyone with kids, we have too much stuff—but you can never have too many local family-bonding experiences. Thanks to life reopening, let’s make this year’s gifts about experiences rather than things. While this season is filled with experiences such as enjoying festive shows for all ages in Los Angeles or heading out to seek the best light displays, the fun times don’t need to end with the holidays. Whether you and your brood want to go horseback riding, perfect a macaron, or take a family staycation at the beach, now’s as good a time as any to make happy memories with the best experience gifts in Los Angeles.
LA Experience Gift: Plan a Seaside Holiday Escape at the Loews Santa Monica
Traveling beyond California can require much planning, but booking a magical seaside escape at the Loews Santa Monica is nothing but fun for you and the kids. This gift experience is bound to alleviate a lot of the holiday stress for the parents while providing tons of entertainment that the kids will go ga-ga over (and may become a new annual tradition).
From now until Jan. 1, you can experience a host of holiday-themed fun events including breakfast with Santa, Brunch with Santa Paws (bring your furry friends), Tea with a Twist, holiday movies, a Holiday Drag Brunch, and seasonal cocktails. And if that wasn't all, there's a heated pool and jacuzzi so kids can swim and splash to their holiday heart's delight while parents can join in or relax poolside. Not to mention, there's also daily bike access so you and your crew want to hop on and ride along The Strand, one of our favorite spots to bike with kids in LA. And, if you still have energy after all of that, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier is literally a hop, skip, and jump away.
For those that can't commit to just one experience, give the gift of many! Go City is a travel pass (but not just for tourists—locals can take advantage too) that offers over 40 exclusive experiences around LA for one low cost. The All-Inclusive Pass allows you to visit as many attractions as you would like in a one-to-7 day period (perfect for when guests come into town and you want to show them all the things). Or choose the Explorer Pass where you can pick from two-to-7 experiences—all to be completed within a 60-day period (parenting pro tip: ideal for winter breaks and spring breaks when you want to do something fun in town with the kids!).
Insider Tip: Go City is currently in 31 cities around the world—check out their site if you're headed out of town or want to gift an experience to a friend or other family member.
Cost: Prices vary depending on which pass you choose Online:gocity.com
LA Experience Gift: Lakers Game
Watch the Lakers (and King James) rule the court by gifting a set of basketball tickets. And while any season game would be absolutely worthwhile, we can't help but endorse the Jan. 4 game, which conveniently takes place shortly after Christmas. The Lakers are playing Miami Heat for an end-of-the-holidays east coast-west coast mash-up that's not to be missed.
Does your toddler love to mix, stir, and mash? Does your teen want to recreate every winning dish from the Great British Baking Show? Thankfully we have two pro spots to send your kids—whether it's for a stand-alone class or if you want to gift them a series of classes.
The Little Kitchen Academy in Century City offers various sessions based on age group but they also have "drop-in" classes—some that will be focusing on edible gifts.
At the Gourmandise School in Santa Monica, you can take classes together for ages 6-11 (hello bonding experience) and make cookies for Santa and other Christmas treats. For ages 12-16, you can send them on their own to make classic holiday cookies, holiday macarons, and more.
Dates: Varies throughout the year Cost: Classes start at $115
Give your sunny, SoCal kids a taste of winter! LA has a number of fun, snowy options, from nearby spots to worth-the-drive Mammoth Lakes. If proximity is your jam, then grab tickets for Mt. Baldy, located just 52 miles from DTLA. A reservation includes round-trip scenic lift tickets to the top of Mount Baldy plus a day of snow play. There's also a restaurant at the top where chilly kiddos can stock up on hot chocolate and snacks. Participants must be at least 40" tall.
Insider Tip: For more ways to play in the snow near LA, from sledding to snowboarding, check out our favorite local resorts that offer gift cards and the like for an unforgettable, snow-filled experience.
LA Experience Gift: Surf Lessons
Are your kids even LA kids if they don't know how to surf? Now's the time to gift them a surf session from Go Surf LA. And while they offer private lessons, we think the family deal package where they tailor the group lesson to your family's needs would make a great gift for everyone. Lessons are located in Santa Monica, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, Zuma, and Venice although beginner lessons take place in Santa Monica, run for 90 minutes, and include a wet suit and surfboard.
Go Surf LA 1 Bicknell Ave. Santa Monica Online:gosurfla.com
LA Experience Gift: Trapeze School New York/Los Angeles
If you've got a budding daredevil, then gift them a series of lessons at the Trapeze School New York (in LA) for the perfect high-flying experience gift. Sessions are two hours—just enough to get all those little fliers airborne. If the trapeze feels too scary, you can also gift a trampoline class that teaches the fundamentals of body awareness and trains for somersaults and twisting skills. These lessons are open to children ages 6 and older.
Dates: Daily, year-round Cost: Sessions are $45-$84/person
LA Experience Gift: Family Horseback Ride in Griffith Park
Head out into the hills by horseback and see the city from spots you've never seen before. Located next to Griffith Park, Sunset Ranch is one of LA's most popular riding spots, with easy access to wide-open trails that offer incredible views of the LA Basin and the Hollywood sign. Choose from one- or two-hour trail rides—or splurge and book an evening ride to see the sun set over the mountains. Kids must be at least 8 years old to ride.
Insider tip: They're open on Christmas day in case you're looking for something to do with the family.
LA Experience Gift: Meet Your Favorite Wild Animal
If you've got "animal people" in your family you'll want to reserve an experience at the Wildlife Learning Center in Sylmar, where you can get up-close experiences sure to wow any critter-lover. Feed a giraffe, hang out with a sloth, give snacks to a porcupine, and hold a boa constrictor—among other experiences. All proceeds go back to the center, which has provided care to more than 100 displaced, rescued, and zoo-born wild animals since 1993.
Dates: Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $35-$150/group (up to five people, general admission not included)
Do your kids have a need for speed? Then send them go kart racing at one of the tracks located around LA. Today’s indoor karts are designed for drivers as young as 5 or 6, and they can drive independently—the only requirement: drivers must be at least 48 inches tall for most karts (some require a height of 50 inches). See our guide for the list of kid-friendly go kart tracks around LA to gift this adrenaline-pumping experience.
Not all gifts have to cost a ton of money. Take the opportunity this holiday to spend time in nature and visit one of our National Forests near LA. If these are too far or you are looking for something with slightly less commitment, you can check out these local LA hikes for babies, toddlers and big kids near LA. This gift of time may just be your kid's favorite gift yet.
There’s something about a cabin in the woods that restores your family’s energy
Ready to escape the world and spend some time in nature? We get it. Book yourself (and the kids) a few days at a cozy cabin in the woods to take some time away from the screens and just relax among the trees. This list has family-friendly cabins across the U.S. including Gatlinburg cabins, cabins in the Rocky Mountains, cabins near lakes, and even some dog-friendly cabins. Nature awaits—what are you waiting for?
This Airbnb rental on the Hood Canal has everything a PNW vacation home should. Kayaks and rowboats (with lifejackets too!) are available for use on the over 100 feet of private waterfront just outside the home. Spend your days digging for clams and oysters nearby; then bring them back to grill on the deck while you watch the sun set. Bring fixings for s’mores and head down to the fire pit to enjoy those with the kids once dinner’s over. The house is close to the Olympic National Park entrance (remember your park pass) and Lake Cushman activities, too. Weekend or week … you’ll find plenty to do.
If you’ve got a little LEGO lover in the fam, he or she is going to think everything about this house is awesome! The bright and funky architectural home (Wendell Lovett) includes LEGO design elements in the kitchen and LEGO wall art (using real bricks!), as well as plenty of open space and light-filled rooms. Parents and kiddos alike will love the A-frame design and spots of bright colors and stylish furnishings around every corner.
The Woodlands House sits on five acres of wooded property. It is a beautiful 3 bedroom home (plus kids' room) with two outdoor decks surrounded by beautiful trees. It's perfect for getaways or a trip to the mountains, as it's a 25-minute drive from Mount Hood skiing, 15-minutes from hikes, and only 45 min from PDX.
The large deck off the main level that overlooks a trickling stream, is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee and watch deer come to the water for a drink. The deck also features a large 6-person hot tub, that is perfect to soak your bones after a day of skiing or hiking.
This secluded, riverfront cabin sits on a full wooded acre with private access to the Washougal River. Prepare dinner in the well-appointed kitchen and then lounge by the wood stove. This home is located just 40 miles northeast of Portland and only 12 miles from downtown Washougal. The surrounding forest is filled with native northwestern plants and old-growth trees, some of which are more than 300 years old. A wide variety of outdoor activities are possible here, yet the setting itself is secluded and free from the noise and distractions of everyday life.
You will love the hygge vibe at this cozy cabin in the Tahoe Donner community. You'll find tons of spots for everyone to sleep in and a fire pit for nights under the stars. The kitchen has everything you'll need to cook for your crew and there are even extra winter clothes if you've forgotten something. The kids will especially love the game room in the basement.
Gold Country Round House with Waterfall—Grass Valley, CA
Airbnb
This brand-new house is going to be your new favorite family destination. Its unique round shape provides views for miles of the five-acre property. You'll find a rushing creek, a pond, and a waterfall, plus a hot tub on the deck. Cook up a meal in the gourmet kitchen and enjoy all the Gold Country beauty.
This spot would be a great option to bring your whole crew as it comfortably sleeps up to 14 people. The two-story deck will be everyone's favorite and the newly renovated kitchen has everything you need. Nearby attractions include the Stanislaus River, the quirky town of Murphys, Bear Valley ski area, and Big Trees State Park. There are tons of tubing spots nearby in the winter and the cabin has the gear you can borrow.
Tucked away in the hills of Topanga, this clean and character-filled 3-bedroom home offers mountain views, multiple patios and a backyard wooded path to explore. The third bedroom has two built-in platform twin beds perfect for kiddos who will feel like they're sleeping in their own little treehouse. Sleeps: 4 Cost: $814/night Online: airbnb.com
A short, leisurely drive through the pine tree-lined mountain road welcomes you to Pineland Chalet. You arrive and are greeted with the smell of vanilla-scented pines. This adorably decorated mountain cabin sleeps 8, with 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms.
If the mountains are your kind of playground, you can fulfill your outdoor adventure needs with hiking, zip-lining, or playing 18 holes of disc golf in the summer season. In the winter months, let your downhill dreams take flight with skiing, snowboarding, or inner-tubing at Southern California’s closest and most popular winter resort, Mountain High.
This charming little log cabin is everything you'd want from a spot in Big Bear: Warm and cozy, with the sort of simple charm that makes you want to snuggle up by the fire after a day of snow play. Built by hand from 1949 through 1951, the cabin has original kitchen appliances and light fixtures, a large custom wood burning fireplace and vintage decor. Outside, kids can swing on the tree swing, sled in the private back yard or climb into the treehouse. It's also just a short drive to the ski slopes and local tubing destinations.
Bonus: Got pets? There's no need to leave your pup at home as the cabin is pet-friendly (and stay for free!).
When you've got a whole brood of kids to bundle up and get out the door, anything that makes things simpler is worth it. Enter: This 2,000-square-foot condo located a few feet from the Canyon Lodge Ski Lifts and Gondolas is well worth the price tag. Aside from easy access to the slopes, this place has luxurious furnishings, stainless steel appliances, and an "expansive bunkroom" for the kids with two plush bunk beds (both bottom bunks have queen-size mattresses!). There's also a private patio with a hot tub, fire pit, barbecue and pizza oven.
Kids will get a kick out of the fact there are actual boulders INSIDE this gorgeous Idyllwild home. Just a 2-minute drive to the center of the town of Idyllwild, the "Boulder Lodge" features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a loft with a daybed—plus two decks with amazing mountain views and plenty of space for outdoor dining and star gazing. Stroll the grounds outside to find a full teepee, a hammock, and a six-person hot tub.
Bonus: The home is located just across from the Idyllwild Nature Center, which offers guided tours and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.
This beautiful cozy cabin is nestled on a hillside just 1 mile from the town of Crown King. Settled in the Sunny South neighborhood this house has beautiful views from every location on the wrap-around deck. Cook up some dinner on the BBQ and enjoy the picturesque property.
Windy Rock Lodge is found in the heart of Oak Creek Canyon, bordered by the babbling Oak Creek and lush Coconino National Forest. Huge windows reveal the majestic mountains and Ponderosa Pines. This rustic cabin is crafted from natural pine tree beams found on the property and local river rock. The experience here comes with the charms of forest life with views like you've never seen before.
The Pedernales Cabin at A-Frame Ranch is a brand new, modern A-frame cabin set on 17 beautiful acres right on the edge of charming Fredericksburg, TX. This is a place to truly unwind and feel like you’re out in the country while being less than a 10-minute drive to Main Street. The area has so much to offer, from dance halls and wineries to gourmet restaurants and hiking. Or stay in the entire weekend—sit back on the deck while gazing at the stars and then watch the deer go by in the morning!
"Doc's Hideaway" sits at the tip of the Door County peninsula in beautiful Gills Rock, surrounded by lush woods on one side and the picturesque Bay and bluffs on the other. This mid-1800s cabin has been lovingly renovated (admire the character of the original hand-scraped wood walls and ceiling beams) with all the amenities and comforts of home. Cabin guests enjoy lake access and a private waterfront patio and seating area (with two kayaks provided).
This cabin is perfect for your next totally off-grid family adventure. You'll find some great walleye fishing right outside your door where Pistake Lake meets Fox River. There's no TV or internet so be ready to relax as a family.
This secluded cabin sleeps 16 and is perfect for your next family gathering. Grill at the outdoor BBQ or cook up a meal in one of the cabin's two kitchens. There are six bedrooms and plenty of outdoor space for exploring.
Unbelievable views from the massive upper and lower decks + hot tub will make this spot a family favorite. Deer watch through picture windows & enjoy the seclusion. This family-friendly home feels FAR from everything but is only a few minutes off the main road. The cabin includes a high chair, two pack-n-plays, a baby gate, and numerous toys/accessories. If your kids happen to be of the furry variety, our home is dog-friendly and equipped with a large dog bed and pet bowls.
Fall asleep to the murmur of crickets and wake up to birdsong at Kilo Cabin. You’ll feel like you’re deep in the mountains, but you're only 40 minutes from downtown Atlanta, 50 minutes from the airport, and a straight shot 15 minutes south of I-20. You can expect to have solitude and lots of wildlife at this family cabin.
This cabin offers a charming and private Smoky Mountain escape. The peacefulness and solitude provide all the privacy you need for a break from the stress of the real world with your family. The cabin setting is quiet with the only noise being the Dollywood train whistle and local wildlife going about their day. The cabin is surrounded by woods on all sides, except of course for the clearing of the view.
Perched up high on nearly 60 acres, you are sure to get fresh air and the rest you are searching for! The property is only 4 miles to Wintergreen, 6 miles to Sherando Lake and backs up to the Blue Ridge Parkway there are plenty of things to do or just relax and enjoy the crickets and stars.
Applecart Farm is one of the most private residential properties in Rockport. The property is surrounded by close to 2500 acres of protected woodlands and miles of trails but is only a 5-minute walk to the train station and a 10-minute walk to downtown Rockport. Kids will love visiting with the friendly miniature horses that live on the property.
Settle in at this New Fairfield, CT cabin across from Candlewood Lake and a two-minute drive from Squantz Pond State Park. This little house has stylish touches all around, as well as a fire pit and patio, outdoor shower and even an inflatable hot tub!
You might be surprised to discover how many nature preserves can be found in Dallas and other cities nearby
When it comes to outdoor activities in North Texas, fall is one of the best times to explore. Not only is the weather perfect, but in many places, you can see the glory of fall foliage. So it’s time to get out there and enjoy the natural beauty DFW has to offer before the chilly winter months set in. From the Trinity Audubon Center to the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, we’ve rounded up 13 of our favorite nature preserves in Dallas and beyond.
From the impressive visitors center to the marshlands and the river trails, the Trinity Audubon is a hidden gem of a nature preserve in Dallas. There are over 6,000 acres of the Great Trinity Forest to explore, and it's just 10 miles away from downtown Dallas. They have guided hikes, bird-watching events, kid programs, and much more.
6500 Great Trinity Forest Way or 6500 S. Loop 12. Dallas, TX
One of the best places for real hiking in DFW (imagine that on the prairie!), there is a nice mix of flat trails and elevated trails that come with stunning views. Leashed dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of opportunities for bird-watching as well.
This 104-acre retreat is only 10 miles away from DFW but feels like a different world! Wander along the Elm fork of the Trinity River to explore wetlands and upland forests, look for birds, or plan an overnight camping trip!
Nestled on the edge of western Plano, the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is popular with families. Follow the trails along the creek, ride bikes, wander through the wildflower pasture or stop for lunch at one of the picnic tables located in the 200-acre park.
There have been over 650 species identified in Spring Creek Forest. This bottomland forest has been protected from development and offers paved trails that are perfect for families. And, if you have a fossil enthusiast in your group, be sure to check out the cliffs to see if you can spot any!
One of the best nature preserves in DFW, it’s easy to spend a whole day at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge. There are over 20 miles of trails in the 3000+-acre open space, making it one of the biggest city-owned nature centers in the country. You’ll have fun spotting wildlife (including alligators, so keep littles close), exploring the beautifully maintained trails, and even meeting some bison!
Another great place for an uphill hike, the Dogwood Canyon Audubon also has a fun natural play space for kids and an interesting visitors center. Both are still closed due to COVID, but be sure to set aside time to explore when they open back up. They also usually have kayak tours, summer camps, guided tours, and Birds of Prey encounters!
This is a smaller nature preserve in Dallas. It's on the edge of the Trinity River Corridor Project, but it still offers plenty to do! There’s a fishing pier, ½ mile of paved trail around the pond, open prairie space, pavilions for picnics, and for those with horses, there’s access to four miles of soft trail.
This nature center acts as a gateway to over 2,000 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, water habitats, and upland prairie—things North Texas is known for! There are five miles of family-friendly hiking trails, some of which will give kids a chance to look for beavers, herons, and other aquatic species.
Pettinger Nature Preserve & The Trails at Squabble Creek - Rockwall
If you live on the east side of the metroplex, cross Lake Ray Hubbard and spend a day in Rockwall. Pettinger Nature Preserve, a 26-acre space with a one-mile loop that opened in the spring of 2020, borders Squabble Creek and has a beautiful meadow with a butterfly garden and two outdoor picnic areas. Across the creek are the Trails at Squabble Creek. With a combination of mountain bike and hiking trails, there are six loops to choose from, and they vary from an open meadow walk to more dense trails along the creek.
450 W. Quail Run Rd. Rockwall, TX
1401 Dickson Ln. Rockwall, TX
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary - McKinney
One of the best places to learn about nature and wildlife in DFW, the Heard Museum is a curious kiddo’s wonderland! Wander through 6.5 miles of trails, explore the butterfly house, play in the pioneer museum, dig for fossils, and more!
Located in the heart of Dallas, this open space offers 121 acres up to the public. With over eight miles of biking/walking trails, it's the perfect place to enjoy nature without having to drive too far.
The best spots to find spooky Halloween tricks and treats in the Bay Area
It’s officially spooky season (aka: Halloween)! And if spooky is your thing, you’re in luck! The Bay Area is abuzz with spooktacular events all month long. Whether you’re looking for a slightly chilling fright night, an outdoor craft fair with fall treats or a Halloween-themed railroad ride or animal adventure, kids and families across the Bay will have plenty of ways to gather with gourds and get ghoulish. Of course if you need a nearby pumpkin patch fix, looking for an epic apple picking adventure in the Bay Area, or want to test your navigational skills in the best corn maze near you (who also host some frightfully fun events to boot)—we gotcha there too.
Six Flags Boo Fest: Enjoy this new family-friendly adventure of Trick-or-Treat Street around the park and get candy by your favorite characters. Enjoy all this season has to offer—with a few special animal shows with a twists of their own. Be sure to check out The Wildlife Halloween Experience, Drench! Halloween, and Ghoul School. For older kids, check out Fright Fest.
Pirates of Emerson Haunted Theme Park: This freaky walk-through theme park features the Dorm of Doom, Hillbilly Holler, Maze Haze and the Mystery Mansion. Online, timed-entry tickets only which means if you want to go to this event, get your tickets now.
The Greater, Bigger Boo at Gilroy Gardens: Enjoy a live musical show as you "Do the Boo'' with a charming cast of Halloween characters at Gilroy Gardens’ Lakeside Amphitheater. Meet Vinnie the Vampire, Cranium the Mad Scientist, and Wendella the Witch on a quest to save Halloween. Plus, trick-or-treat down Boo Alley, ride the Boo Train, see the pumpkin pyramid and make your way through the hay maze.
Thomas & Percy's Halloween Party:Dress up for Halloween with favorites Thomas and Percy, for a 20 minute train ride, entertainment, and fun filled activities for the entire family.
Halloween Jam at Fairyland: We’re a bit batty about Halloween Jam. This six-day event is a boo-tiful time, more kooky than spooky, and full of outdoor fall fun and festivities at Fairyland! Enjoy seasonal surprises like decked-out sets, a creepy crawly scavenger hunt, arts and crafts stations where you can make your own bat costume, and the ghost town formerly known as Old West Junction. Kids get a special Halloween goodie bag.
Bat Fest Community Event: It's our biggest and most exciting event of the year—Bat Fest! Join Saved By Nature for an evening festival celebrating local animals of the night, with live bats, owls, and other creatures. It's a fun time under the stars! With a special guest speaker, food trucks, live music, festival games, arts and crafts, mini-pumpkin patch, REI lounge and community partner organization booths.
When: Oct. 22
Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space 4289 Casa Loma Rd. Morgan Hill Online:savedbynature.org
Goblin Jamboree at the Bay Area Discovery Museum: Goblin Jamboree returns for a celebration packed with Halloween themed programs and frightful delights. Flying ghosts, steampunk robots, a hay maze, bone digs and a shadow puppet theater are just a few of the fun things this annual fundraising event has to offer.
Haunted Hanger: Visit the Hiller Aviation Museum to see the gallery decked out in Halloween adornments and take part in the Great Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt. Kids can also paint a plane in seasonal Halloween colors, try the famous Helicopter Pumpkin Drop and join a variety of other special carnival activities.
When: October 22-31
Hiller Aviation Museum 01 Skyway Rd. San Carlos Online: hiller.org
Boo at the (Oakland) Zoo: Calling all ghosts, goblins, and witches—enjoy this family-friendly Halloween event with a spooky animal-themed scavenger hunt! Grab a program as you enter the Zoo and follow the clues on our self-guided scavenger hunt to trick-or-treat for animal trading cards throughout the Zoo. Upon completing your scavenger hunt, collect a limited release trading card and a candy bar from our presenting sponsor OCHO Candy.
California Academy of Sciences SuperNatural Halloween: Shake your bones at a silent disco in Steinhart Aquarium. Satisfy your sweet tooth at trick-or-treat stations. Marvel at mystical magic shows. See what slithers and scuttles at live animal demonstrations. Meet mad scientists and ogle at unusual specimens. Create crafts to "DIY" for. Transform into living (or undead) art with face painting. Immortalize your spirit at a photo booth. And last but not least: Teens can rest in peace at an exclusive teen lounge with arcade games, snacks, and more.
When: Oct. 28
55 Music Concourse Dr. San Francisco Online: calacademy.org
Halloween Hoopla at Yerba Buena Gardens: Creep, crawl and slither your way over to the 22nd annual Halloween Hoopla for kids 10 and under along with their adults. With performances by Chelle! & Friends, Caterpillar Puppets and Coventry & Kaluza, palm reading from the mystical Madam Z, houlishly good craft-making at the activity tables, and Emceed by marvelous magician Calvin Kai Ku, Halloween Hoopla is the place to be for family-friendly frights and delights. The Hoopla grand finale is the annual Halloween Costume Parade—all kids are welcome to join in their best Halloween looks.
Learn All about Bats: Want to know the truth about bats? They’re actually fascinating mammals—not just freaky Halloween decorations! Participate in an outdoor, interactive experience with bats to learn some incredible truths about these mythical creatures. All ages are welcome and the event is free to everyone.
Jeepers Jack O'Lanterns at Paradise Beach: Join rangers to carve a spooky Jack-O-Lantern for Halloween! A limited number of pumpkins will be available (bring your own). Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes. Remember to bring a water bottle, sunscreen, a hat and lunch. No pets (except service animals) are allowed at this park. Park entrance fee is waived for participants.
Halloween Sausalito: A "Howl’O’Ween" dog costume contest, spooky haunted house and a Halloween parade and trick-or-treating lane are all happening in Sausalito.
Fall fairs in LA! From the largest corn mazes to the best photo-ops imaginable, discover the best fall festivals in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, with its plentiful palm trees and summery temperatures, may not feel like fall, but there are still plenty of chances for you and your kiddos to experience some of those classic autumn experiences aka: the fall festival (if you’re looking specifically for apples and pumpkins and leaf peeping—check out all the best places to go apple picking around LA, where to find your perfect pumpkin and all the nearby fall foliage spots we love around LA).
What makes the SoCal fall festival different from a regular pumpkin patch? There are loads more to discover than just the gourd—learn about and explore farm goods, wander fields and pick your own flowers, veggies (and yes, pumpkins), get lost in corn field mazes, ride an amusement park ride or two, and eat your way through loads of fall-friendly fare—all this and more at our favorite fall festivals in LA, SoCal, Orange County, Ventura and everywhere in between.
Pumpkin Festival at Cal Poly: Cal Poly's College of Agriculture grows 40,000 pumpkins for this annual event, a smorgasbord of fall harvest traditions, including (obviously) a massive pumpkin patch, horse and pony rides, a petting zoo, duck races, a sunflower field, live music, games, a food court, and two corn mazes. What makes this festival different than some of the others is the focus on education (it's a college, after all). Families can wander down "Ag Discovery Lane" to check out various live demonstrations of things like blacksmithing, soap-making, beekeeping, sheep shearing and live cow-milking (which'll make your kid either appreciate—or abandon—their daily cup of milk). New this year: Pumpkin Land, a garden “gallery” of uniquely decorated pumpkins. And for an additional entrance fee, little bug-lovers will want to get a ticket for the festival's Insect Fair, which has 500,000 live and preserved insects from around the world.
Dates: Oct. 1-30 Cost: Thurs. & Fri.: Adults, $6; children 3–12, $5; kids under 3 are free. Sat. & Sun.: Adults: $10; children 3–12, $7. Certain events require additional tickets on the weekends
AGRIscapes Center 4102 S. University Dr. Pomona Online:cpp.edu
LA Fall Fair: The largest Fall Festival in Los Angeles County, you'll find 12 acres of amusement rides, live music, games, arts & crafts, and an international food court. Fair-goers can purchase a presale unlimited ride wristband for $25 that allows the fairgoer to ride all the rides as many times as they want for any one day of the event from open until close.
Dates: Oct. 21-Nov. 6 Cost: $5 per person; Under 12 and over 65 are free
Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever Cemetery: For a different direction than farms and pumpkin patches, head to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for their spectacular Día de los Muertos event. Tour over 100 vibrant altars, uniquely decorated in honor of community members’ ancestors and loved ones; awards are given at the end of the day to the most memorable altars and best-dressed Calacas (skeletons). Many event goers arrive in magical costumes (best costume is awarded $500!). At the Children’s Plaza, kids can participate in art and crafting activities, face painting, and performances by the Bob Baker Marionettes. Families can also watch the procession featuring hundreds of Aztec ritual dancers, listen to music on five different stages and sample food from LA vendors.
Date: Oct. 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $35 (under 5 don’t require a ticket)
Underwood Family Farms: Celebrating its 21st year, Underwood Family Farms is the best-known fall festival in Los Angeles—and it's no wonder why. The (slightly steep) ticket price gives families a whole day's worth of activities, including a massive corn maze, a tractor-drawn wagon ride, an animal center with a menagerie of adorable farm animals, a chicken show (!), a farm-themed playground, pig races, and acres of open space for kids to sprint their sillies out. Shell out additional bucks and you can add more to your day, including pony rides, kid-drivable mini-tractors, and a train ride. There's also Moorpark's amazing farm stand, and enough pumpkins in the patch that you'll be sure to find one that's Jack-O-Lantern-worthy.
Dates: Oct. 1 through 31. The festival is open seven days a week, but the major programming, live music and shows happen on the weekend. Cost: $22-$28 on the weekends; $14 on weekdays; kids under 2 are free. (Hint: Online tickets are required for weekends; for certain weekends, you can buy advanced tickets online for a discounted price.)
Weekend programming highlights include: Oct. 1-2: "Friends of the Farm Weekend," a public safety-themed weekend, when the fair will be filled with all sorts of real-life superheroes including Bomb Squad and SWAT members, police K-9s, a Disaster Action Response Team display (DART)—plus police cars and police motorcycles that your kids will love getting to see up close. Oct. 15-16: "Antique Tractor Weekend" where dozens of old tractors will be on display and their owners available to answer all your littles’ burning tractor questions. Plus, tractors go on parade at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. Oct. 22-23: "Wild West Weekend," filled with cowboy entertainment including stunt ropers, a gold miner, a covered wagon, music, and more.
Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch: Tanaka's 30-acres of Irvine farmland are open to the public year-round via U-pick and guided walking and wagon tours, but the farm ups its game during the Halloween season. This Fall Harvest Festival features carnival-style games, ATV and wagon rides, a pumpkin cannon, a corn maze and pumpkins as far as the eye can see. While you're there, pick up some farm-fresh veggies (straight out of the ground via U-Pick or from the farm stand), grab lunch from the Tanaka Farms Grille, or let the kids have some QT with the critters in the petting zoo. Note: There is no public drinking water, so bring your own water (or be prepared to buy drinks there) because it can get hot.
Dates: Weekends, Sept. 17 through Oct. 31 Cost: $10, with various activities costing additional fees
Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch: You’ll find this pumpkin patch just behind the Irvine Park Railroad station in Orange County. There’s a wide mix of classic fall activities. Free-of-charge ones include a haunted house, a hay maze, hay pyramids for kids to climb and photo stations. Buy tickets for pumpkin decorating, John Deere racers (the mini-sized versions, whew), panning for gold, hay and train rides, carnival games and more. And on Sept. 24, starting at 9 a.m., bring your best estimating skills to The Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off where prizes will be awarded to the biggest pumpkins.
Dates: Sept. 17-Oct. 31 Cost: Entrance to the pumpkin patch is free. Activity tickets are $7; pack of 15 tickets is $90. There is also a park entrance fee per vehicle of $3 on weekdays, $7 on weekends
The Best Fall Festivals in the San Fernando Valley
Forneris Farms Fall Festival: Forneris Farms' annual fall festival boasts a four-acre cornfield maze that is so big that it takes about an hour to complete—and kids under 12 aren't allowed without a parent. Which is to say, it's super big, super fun and super worth it! Festival-goers can also enjoy pony rides, a tractor-pulled train ride and a tractor ride around the farm. Your littlest celebrants will be in Halloween heaven at the "Farm Frolic" area, which includes a giant pumpkin jumper, a hay bale pyramid, a hay bale mini-maze and more.
Good to Know: All attractions are cash only; there is an ATM on site.
Dates: Sept. 30 through Oct. 31 Cost: Entry is free to the farm and pumpkin patch, but attraction passes—which include the corn maze, train ride and Farm Frolic area—are a separate fee (ages 2 and under are free)
Calabasas Pumpkin Festival: Did you know that Calabasas comes from the Spanish word ‘calabaza’ meaning ‘pumpkin’ or ‘gourd?’ So, it makes sense that Calabasas would go all out for its annual weekend-long Pumpkin Festival, a Halloween-time tradition that been holding strong from more than 40 years. This year, festival-goers can expect a slew of fun seasonal entertainment, including live music, food booths (orange flags signify vendors with pumpkin-based treats), tons of vendor stands, spooky squash sculptures, a beer garden (with pumpkin beer!), pumpkin carving with Peculiar Pumpkin Portrait's Doug Goodreau, and kids' games. Admission price includes all inflatables, a giant slide, Halloween carnival games, reptiles and bug shows, and a Saturday morning costume parade.
Dates: Oct. 16, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $10-15, kids under 2 are free
Big Horse Corn Maze: Speaking of corn mazes, if you really want to get lost in the crops, it's worth the hour-ish drive out of town to test your navigation skills at the Big Horse Corn Maze & Harvest Festival, where its whopper of a maze is ranked as the biggest in all Southern California. We're talking over 11 acres of corn stalks to navigate, which is no easy task, especially with little ones in tow. (FYI: If you give up, there are emergency exits along the way. And your bigger Harry Potter fans will love how much like the Tri-Wizard Tournament's final task this feels!)
Dates: Oct. 1-3; Tues.-Fri. 1-5 p.m.; weekends 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $15 (ages 5 and under are free). Each group must have a parking pass as well, parking $5
Favorite fall destinations include Montalvo, Filoli Gardens, and Golden Gate Park
Fall is on its way in and now is the perfect time to pack a picnic and the kids, and head out for some outdoor fun and great seasonal pictures! The Bay Area is known for its redwoods and other giants, but that doesn’t mean we don’t get to see the yellow, red, and orange hues of autumn. Keep an eye on the California Fall Color Map and our list of spots from Napa to the South Bay to know where to find fall colors and roll in some leaves.
San Francisco
Ajay Anthony
The SF Botanical Garden offers an array of colors in the fall, with golden-fanned ginkgo trees, deep purple vine maples, and the Persian ironwood tree with leaves that take on a spectacular rainbow of shades at this time of the year. Be sure to check out the garden’s Facebook page for updates on changing leaf colors.
The Moon Viewing garden with its Japanese Maples is a great spot for a picnic. Or, walk to one of the many kid-friendly restaurants around 9th Ave in the Sunset District.
Showy maples can be found across the street in another park gem, the Japanese Tea Garden. While you take in the autumn scene, the kids can have fun challenging themselves by walking up and down the famous drum bridge and finding their fortune in a cookie at the tea house.
The Oakland Zoo's gondola is the place to be this fall when the leaves start changing color. Where else can you get a bird's eye view of the zoo and surrounding landscape? During your visit, take the opportunity to view the California Trail exhibit, where you can see grizzly bears, bald eagles, California condors, gray wolves, mountain lions, and even jaguars.
Up in the hills above Berkeley, Tilden Park is another go-to place for fall color. Stroll through the Botanic Garden to find changing colors, or hike around Lake Anza. Keep your eye out (not your hands, please!) for the flaming red leaves of poison oak, which add some of the most striking colors to the park. In November and December, head downhill to the UC Berkeley campus, when it’s ablaze with lemon-yellow ginkgo leaves; maples and myrtles add some flair.
Slip through the Caldecott tunnel to find canopies of yellow leaves in and around the trees of Orinda‘s Community Center Park (perfect for making piles and kicking) and along Camino Pablo.
Another great East Bay spot is the Sunol Regional Wilderness which welcomes a kaleidoscope of color as soon as you hit the visitor's center. Find out if they are offering any naturalist-led hikes while you are there or head out on your own. The Indian Joe Creek Nature Trail is a short, self-guided walk that provides loads of information about the park, its animal inhabitants, and the foliage there.
The Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont is another great spot for leaf peeping. Make sure to check out their Naturalist Program page for a variety of seasonal activities including apple cider pressing.
Peninsula/South Bay
Aaron Burden/Unsplash
Driving along Skyline Boulevard as it dips, rises, and weaves through the Peninsula can be visually rewarding on its own, as you pass by stands of sycamores and big-leaf maples. But 5-point harnesses can only contain kid energy for so long. Happily, there are 26 open space preserves in the mid-peninsula region, offering easy hikes, picnic spots, and stunning views. Mount Umunhum offers breathtaking views on non-foggy days. In the Santa Cruz mountains, the Sanborn County Park offers shaded and picturesque trails. And while there, you might catch sight of wild turkey and deer.
A favorite at this time of year is the Rancho San Antonio Preserve, with its maples, oaks, and flowering persimmon trees. Make sure to visit Deer Hollow Farm for self-guided tours to see cows, chickens, and other farm animals, historical buildings, and a barnyard.
While you're in the neighborhood, a side trip to Los Altos is worthwhile to see the Chinese Pistache trees (donated to the city by Los Altos Nursery in the 1950s) dropping their vivid orange and red leaves on Main and 2nd streets.
For a view of the whole valley, head to Montalvo in Saratoga and follow the Lookout Trail to Lookout Point. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the bay. Walk through the grounds on your way down to see some rare trees like the ginkgo tree that turns a glorious gold in the fall.
Woodside is home to the Filoli Gardens and fall is a great time to plan a visit there. Fruit trees abound at Filoli, including pears, plums, apricots, and apples. Check their website before you go to see what colors you can expect.
Marin
A great spot to find that heady mix of fall colors and evergreens is Samuel P. Taylor State Park, with its oaks, firs, and old-growth redwoods. Throw the bikes on the rack, and take a Sunday drive along bucolic Sir Francis Drake Boulevard to the park entrance, 15 miles west of San Rafael. Samuel P. Taylor boasts a few great trails for biking and hiking safely with kids, especially the dog-friendly (and relatively flat) Cross Marin Trail that winds alongside Lagunitas Creek. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a relaxing lunch at the Azalea Picnic Area to complete the day. Or better yet, pitch a tent and stay a while.
Head south for an hour and you will hit Baltimore Canyon Open Space Preserve, home to redwood, oak, maples, and other deciduous trees. Kids will enjoy some creek romping while they search for the red, orange, and yellow leaves that blanket the floor. Adventurous hikers should make Dawn Falls their destination.
Wine Country
Napa Valley Wine Train
Crush season in the Sonoma Wine Country and Napa Valley is a not-to-be-missed sight, as the rolling green hills of grape vines turn to blankets of burgundy and orange.
It is a great time to visit Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, where the cooler fall temps make the park's wooded trails ripe for exploration. In addition to its namesake trees, the peaceful scene on the Redwood Trail includes autumn-gold maple leaves fluttering down alongside Ritchey Creek. Rent a bike from one of the numerous outfits around town and try your luck at Napa's Bikes and Sights Scavenger Hunt! Take in extraordinary views of the county and vineyards at the North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Reserve. Big leaf maples and oak woodlands can be found at Spring Lake Regional Park in Sonoma County, and the kids might enjoy riding their bikes or boating on the lake.
Feeling the heat and looking for a playground with shade? We’ve rounded up some of the shadiest playgrounds in NYC—as in places with lots of shade, the kind that involves sunlight. There are a few in Manhattan, an awesome all-abilities playground, and even some where you can get wet when you really want to cool off. And when you just need some major time in the A/C, there are loads of indoor playgrounds that the kids will love.
For a Pioneer in Queens: The Playground for All Children
The Playground for All Children is the first playground constructed in the United States for disabled and able-bodied children. It served as a prototype for similar sites across New York City, the United States, and the world. Designed for kids ages three to 12, the playground offers opportunities for social, cognitive, sensory and motor stimulation, with accessible slides, swings, a bridge, a water wheel area, Nature Interpretive Trail and more. Plaques are in English and braille, and the playground is home to several Parks Department learning programs dedicated to nature, arts, and cultural understanding.
Flushing Meadows Corona Park Near 111th Street and Corona Ave. Online: nycgovparks.org
Shade for Tots in DUMBO: Pier One, Brooklyn Bridge Park
Mimi O'Connor
An unsung hero in Brooklyn Bridge Park (often overshadowed, so to speak, by Slide Mountain and Swing Valley over on Pier 6) the Pier 1 play space is notable for a couple of reasons. While we love the playgrounds at BBP, shade can be sparse in the park, where the vegetation is still growing in. However, this playground is an exception and is mercifully surrounded by greenery. (It's tucked away and feels like a hidden sanctuary.) The playground is also a fantastic space for the beginner (at life) set; babies and toddlers can explore low-lying turtles, a colorful mini house and climbing structure, and enjoy some swing time.
Pier 1 Brooklyn Bridge Park (near ferry and water taxi docks) Online: brooklynbridgepark.org
Located on the south end of Yorkville's lovely Carl Schurz Park (also home to the mayoral residence, Gracie Mansion) Catbird Playground takes its name from a James Thurber short story. You'll find climbing structures, swings, monkey bars, rings, a sandbox and spray showers—all under the cover of shade mature trees. The park, home to two dog runs, is also known for being very dog-friendly.
It's so limiting to think of shade coming just from trees. In the city—and in the proud industrial Brooklyn neighborhood of Gowanus—the shade comes from train tracks overhead. It sounds counter-intuitive, but this playground, located beneath the F/G train overpass, is a pleasant place to spend some time. It features ADA-accessible playground equipment for kids of all ages, lots of room to roam, a safety surface underfoot, and gentle spray showers that are activated at the touch of a button.
422 Smith St. (between Nelson and Huntington) Carroll Gardens/Gowanus Online: nycgovparks.org
For an Upper West Side Institution: Hippo Playground
If hippos don't know how to keep cool, who does? Much beloved by the community (and taken extra special care of, thanks to The Playground Project), Hippo Playground takes its name from the impossible-to-miss Bob Cassily hippopotamus statues found "frolicking" in the park. A particularly good spot for young ones, the playground includes swings, a wood play structure, a jungle gym, a slide, a soft play surface, a sand pit, and a spray fountain. Bonus: picnic tables and restrooms, plus a cool Joan of Arc statue at 93rd Street! Lots of seasonal events take place here so follow their FB page for all the details.
For a New Playground Under Old Shade: Black Rock Playground
NYC Parks Department
The Bronx's Black Rock Playground in Soundview reopened after a $1.9 million renovation. Designed with input from local students at the nearby P.S. 119, the new playground, surrounded by tall, leafy trees, includes fresh colorful play equipment, swings, a water play area, and drinking fountains. Plus, new plantings, seating, and an improved drainage system.
Watson Ave., Blackrock Ave. between Virginia Ave. and Pugsley Ave. Online: nycgovparks.org
For Shade Near a Big Pool in Astoria: Charybdis Playground
Taking its name from Greek mythology (Charybdis was the daughter of Poseidon, and responsible for some rough waters near Sicily) this playground is found on the western edge of Astoria Park. (Which is also home to one of our favorite free public pools in the city.) In addition to shade, this park offers lovely views of the East River, and the Triborough and Hells Gate Bridges, as well as photo-worthy sunsets. Bonus: It underwent major renovations a few years ago and the splash pad area is epic!
Shore Boulevard and 19th Street at 23rd Road Online: nycgovparks.org
This east side park provides relief on hot days thanks to mature trees, sprinklers, and restrooms. You'll find fun climbing structures, swings, various ball courts, gardens, and lots of open space to play.
While there's not a whole lot of playground equipment here, this spot is where you'll find the largest collection of pine trees in Central Park, known as the Arthur Ross Pinetum. The main attraction is the swings—strap swings and bucket swings, so both the kids and you can have some fun—but there's also a chin-up bar if someone's looking to work out. Find this playground just north of the Great Lawn and south of the reservoir.
For an LIC Spot Dubbed "Shady Playground": Andrews Playground
You know there's some relief from the sun when locals call it "Shady Playground." This two-and-a-half-acre Long Island City spot has climbing structures, swings, sprinklers, game tables, benches and more.
Fifth Street, 49th Avenue and Vernon Boulevard Online: nycgovparks.org
For Shade with a Side of Creative Inspiration: Imagination Playground
Mimi O'Connor
This playground has minimal equipment, but that’s exactly what makes it so cool. As the name implies, the playground is designed to encourage kids to use their imaginations from the moment they are greeted by the giant, bronze dragon-shaped sprinkler. Peek inside one of the animal-shaped cutouts, or use the circular stage to put on a show. If all of that imagining leaves them tuckered out, the “Peter and Willie” sculpture, which was inspired by characters in Ezra Jack Keats’ beloved children’s books, is a great place to relax. PS: This is also close to one of our favorite splash pads, LeFrak Center at Lakeside.
Prospect Park Ocean Avenue and Parkside Avenue Prospect Lefferts Gardens Online: prospectpark.org
