Krispy Kreme’s New Donut is Cosmically Cool & Only Available for One Day

by Sarah ShebekJune 22, 2021

The Supermoon is coming on June 24, but there’s no way it will be as eye-catching as this new Krispy Kreme creation! To celebrate the last giant moon of 2021, you can preorder your Strawberry Supermoon donuts or grab them in the store for one day only this Thursday.

Almost too pretty too eat, the new donut is filed with strawberry kreme, dipped in strawberries and kreme icing and topped with graham cracker “moon dust.” You can snag a special dozen with six original and six Supermoon donuts if you preorder by June 23 at noon.

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A post shared by Krispy Kreme Doughnuts (@krispykreme)

You can save your sugary creation and stargaze on Thursday night to see the “strawberry supermoon” rise in the sky. It’s a low full moon that typically has a golden color and will be visible just after sunset. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the moon name has been used by Algonquin, Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota peoples, among others, to mark the ripening of “June-bearing” strawberries that are ready to be gathered.

We’re not sure what celestial treat Krispy Kreme has up its sleeve next, but we can’t wait to see! Enjoy that summer night in style this Thursday.

––Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Krispy Kreme

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The Surprising Way to Calm Down Your Kids (& It Only Takes 7 Minutes)

by Erin LemFebruary 3, 2021

It doesn’t take much to wind up our kids to the point they’re furiously running loops around our house (and us). Instead of just crossing your fingers their frenzied energy doesn’t end in tears, turn to the Calm app. They just teamed up with Apple TV+ to co-create a series of guided meditations just for kids inspired by Apple’s show, Stillwater.

Each meditation is a kid-friendly seven minutes long, meaning it’s ideal for short attention spans. Narrated by James Sie, each short meditation features an exercise meant to calm their mind and is followed up by a story illuminating a classic parable. Apple TV+ and Calm tell us that Stillwater executive producer Rob Hoegee worked with Tamara Levitt, Calm’s Head of Mindfulness, to write the meditations with Stillwater mindfulness consultant Mallika Chopra.

So far Calm has released three original meditations:

1. Rainy Day—Stillwater shows kids how to manage disappointment by tuning into sounds with a meditation on the rainfall in his garden.

2. Stargazing—Settle down and relax at bedtime. Stillwater guides kids through a soothing body scan under a canopy of stars.

3. Windchimes—Develop feelings of kindness. Stillwater teaches little ones how to fill up with friendliness for themselves and others.

Each guided meditation aims to teach lessons like how to be kind and manage disappointment, while also setting them up to relax and settle their bodies and minds.

The three-part series is based on the Apple TV+ show, Stillwater, which debuted in December. The show is based on the popular “Zen Shorts” book series by Jon J. Muth, which tells the story of the friendship formed between siblings Karl, Addy and Michael and their next-door neighbor, the wise panda Stillwater.

Learn more here.

—Erin Lem

photos: Calm and Apple TV+

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It’s Fall, Y’all! 19 Must-Do Activities for Boston Families

by Kate LowethNovember 1, 2020

Isn’t fall just the most beautiful time of year in Boston? We think so! With November on the horizon and Halloween around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan all your fall family activities in Boston. From corn mazes to stargazing, there are tons of ideas here to your family out and exploring this fall. Which activity will be your favorite!

1. Pick the perfect gourd at one of these local pumpkin patches.

2. While you are there, run through a corn maze and see how fast you can make it out!

3. Then snag one of these pumpkin carving templates and go to town!

4. Bake up some pumpkin treats to get your house smelling like fall.

5. Apple picking season is still in full effect and you can head to one of these orchards to see what's available.

6. Up your family movie night game with a projector that is totally kid friendly.

7. Plan a movie night and watch It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.

8. Cook up a ghoulishly good dinner to add a spooky flair to your dinner table.

9. Build a bonfire and make s'mores. While you can do this anytime, there's something about those chilly nights that really make this special. Amp up your s'mores game with these unique takes on the classic treat.

10. Plan out a day of fall science experiments.

11. Tea parties are always fun. But, an apple cider tea party? That screams fall all over.

12. Pizza picnics at Appleton Farms are just about the best way to spend a Friday night.

13. Build a fort outside. The weather is still nice enough for long outdoor afternoons. Take advantage and help your kids get set up with their own pad.

14. Watch the birds fly south for the winter. Look up to see those V-shaped groups of feathered friends heading for warmer pastures.

15. When the days cool down a bit, it's the perfect time to head out on a family hike.

16. Shop your local farmer’s market. Glossy red apples, stew-worthy root veggies and a cornucopia of squashes are waiting for you at your local farmer’s market in autumn. Get yours before the markets go on hiatus for the winter.

17. Make a pillow fort and read Halloween books. Our favorites can be found here.

18. Head to Chestnut Hill Farm to read and hike your way through the Storywalk.

19. Find constellations in the night sky. Fall’s shorter days and longer nights mean kids don’t have to stay up too late to find dazzling patterns overhead. Here's our step-by-step guide to stargazing with kids.

—Kate Loweth

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23 Outdoor Adventures the Whole Family Will Love

by Katrina EmerySeptember 9, 2020

While things keep changing this year, one thing that’s remained is that outside is still the best place for the whole family to have some fun. Whether it’s your backyard, your local park, or a tiny bit further, that fresh outdoor air keeps germs away and gets the wiggles out! Check out these ideas for having as much fun as you can outdoors this summer– remember to still bring your mask for when you can’t appropriately distance, and have fun!

Read on for more!

photo: elvert barnes via flickr

1) Go on a neighborhood scavenger hunt and spy on your neighbor’s gardens– can you find a sunflower? An artichoke? Berry bushes?

2) Explore the trails and creek at the Portland Audubon Society

3) If you’re inspired there, you can find even more great places for birdwatching all around town!

4) Get out of that summer cooking rut and take everyone to a favorite food cart.

photo: rh via yelp

5) Splash into an outdoor swimming hole during the dog days of summer.

6) Head to your favorite spot on the Oregon coast for some distanced beachcombing.

7) Go hiking! There are plenty of easy and gentle trails around for all ages.

8) Stuff your face (after picking, at home) and your freezer at these berry picking farms.

photo: iStock

9) Head outside at night and look up. Find lots of stargazing tips here!

10) Plant a family garden— it’s not too late for fall starts!

11) Portland Farmer’s Market is still open this summer (though there might be a lie to enter) Give each kid $5 and let them pick out whatever they want: bonus points if it’s a new-to-them veggie!

12) Try out a kayak or SUP adventure on the Willamette River.

13) Dine outside! Plenty of restaurants are opening new sidewalk cafes around town, like these ones.

14) Set up a fantastic outdoor art studio for maximum creativity.

photo: via istock

15) Test out your favorite ice cream in town. Yep, you’ll have to try them all: such a sacrifice.

16) Check out some of the best local beaches that are still open.

17) Walk up to one of these windows for your next lunch or dinner.

18) Create a mini fairy garden in your yard or on a windowsill.

19) Grab your favorite snacks and head to a perfect picnic spot.

20) Challenge the family to a tournament with these Jumbo Lawn Games.

photo: pixabay

21) Rack up the miles on the hiking boots (okay, one slow mile at a time) and catch a waterfall spray with one of these easy outings.

22) Take the kids and the pups all out together at these friendly-for-all parks!

23) Get out of town, safely, with these nearby summer getaways that are a quick trip from Portland.

–Katrina Emery

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Escape on the Ultimate Fall Road Trip with Airbnb and MINI USA

by Jennifer SwartvagherSeptember 8, 2020

People are beginning to plan trips for the fall. Airbnb is teaming up with MINI USA to offer guests the opportunity to book a turnkey road trip on Airbnb for $1 per night. Select stays at mini Airbnbs located outside of Los Angeles and New York will come complete with a MINI vehicle that guests can pick up in their respective city so they can get out and responsibly travel, inspiring exploration of the open roads close to home.

The rentals, which will be cleaned and prepared in accordance with CDC guidelines and consistent with the Airbnb enhanced cleaning protocol, will each open three select weekends for three-night stays that guests can request to book on Thurs., Sept. 10 at 1 p.m. PT/ 4 p.m. ET.

Enjoy all the local sights and fall foliage along the way to your mini Airbnb.

With a listing located in Marlboro, New York, the Orchard Views from a Light-Filled Tiny Home with a Fire Pit will provide New Yorkers with all the amenities they’ll need to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring the nearby State Parks in your MINI Cooper S 4-door2.

Host Raven is offering this three-night-stay special with check-ins available on Oct. 16, Nov. 6, and Nov. 20. While in Upstate New York, explore nearby forests and farmlands, and visit the Upper Delaware Scenic & Recreational River, one of the last free-flowing rivers left in the United States.

If going topless is more your style, host Hillary’s Off-Grid Stargazing Cabin in Twentynine Palms, California, comes complete with a MINI Cooper Convertible2.

Completely off the grid, this listing makes for the perfect little getaway from Los Angeles and will be available for three-night stays with check-ins on Nov. 6, Nov. 12, and Dec. 4. Check out nearby wonders along the way, like the Mojave National Preserve that boasts stunning canyons, mountains, and mesas.

Bookings open on Sept. 10 at 1 p.m. PT for selected guest stay dates until sold out.

If you’re not able to snag one of these bookings but in need for some mini getaway inspiration, check out this roundup of tiny homes on Airbnb. Learn about hosting on Airbnb if you have a tiny home and want to share it with others.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Airbnb

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Pandemic Parenting: Toys, Gear & Games Our Editors Swear By

by Kate LowethAugust 16, 2020

The pandemic is here to stay (at least for a while), which means you’re looking for fresh ways to entertain your kids and spend time together. Use this as an opportunity to try something new. Our editors—all moms working at home with their families—dish on their favorite toys, gear and games that have gotten them through even the toughest of days. From gear to get the kids stargazing to products that will turn you into a DIY popsicle superstar, read on for new ideas and products your kids will flip for.

Kelty Mesh Low-Loveseat

mom watching kids playing in a creek at campground — Kelty

Our Bay Area Editor, Kate Loweth, loves this loveseat-style camping chair for beach days, lake days, backyard camping and all the summer fun. It's low enough to bring to use at backyard movie nights and the mesh bottom is perfect for when you want to park yourself in the creek all day (like her family did at their recent glamping vacay at Wildhaven Sonoma).

Get yours here, $107.53.

Get more recommendations from Kate here.

Fancy Sidewalk Chalk & Painter's Tape

Our Atlanta Editor, Shelley Massey, is nuts for sidewalk chalk. Chalk is cool, but donut chalk is epic. And when you're heading out to your driveway for the 1,000th time, nothing will pump them up more than some fancy chalk and a roll of painter's tape, which is guaranteed to amp up the creativity factor. For inspiration on what to do with all that chalk, check out our favorite ways to have fun with sidewalk chalk, here.

Available for $14.95 on Amazon.

Get more recommendations from Shelley here.

DIY Paracord Bracelets

Chicago Editor Maria Chambers has older kids and this was the perfect way to keep them entertained on socially-distanced meet-ups with friends. When they were knee-deep in quarantine and most things were closed, she and her kids learned how to make paracord bracelets. Her daughter now wears hers every day. It was a fun project and also interesting to learn all the uses for the bracelets when used by soldiers and hunters.

If you're interested in making bracelets for soldiers as a family community service project, find the details on where to send and how they're used here.

Buy your colorful paracord here, a kit is $30.49. If you're looking for colors appropriate to donate to soldiers, buy the kit here, for $14.49.

Get more of Maria's recommendations here.

Spooner Boards Freestyle

Our LA Editor, Shannan Rouss, had this super-rad recommendation that will get your kids active. Her son became obsessed with surfing after he saw a Mickey Mouse Clubhouse episode about it. Or maybe it was Lilo & Stitch that sold him on the idea. Regardless, he's only 4, so he's not ready for surfing lessons (plus physical distancing and all). So instead, he "land surfs" on the Spooner Board Freestyle. It took him a few attempts to get the hang of it, but he's mastered a 180 spin and is working on his 360.

Shop now for a Spooner Board Freestyle, $44.

Get more recommendations from Shannan here.

MaxUSee 70mm Refractor Telescope with Tripod & Finder Scope

NYC Editor Mimi O'Connor had this fun idea for getting kids interested in stargazing. Her daughter got this telescope as a birthday present. This was inspired by recent stargazing activity and bought with the hope of using it when they headed upstate for a bit later in the summer. (They use the free app SkyView Lite for help finding constellations in the city.) It's a nice combo of not too complicated, but with enough features to be a level up from basic.

Get yours here, $61.99.

Get more of Mimi's recommendations here.

4 Person Beach Tent Sun Shelter

This sun shelter tent is one of Portland Editor Annette Benedetti's favorite pieces of outdoor equipment. It comes in handy whether her family is relaxing at a park, hanging out on one of their local beaches, or having a picnic in their front yard. It's easy to put together and keep mom and dad sheltered from the elements while they watch their kiddos play.

You can buy it here for $69.99.

See all of Annette's faves here.

gofindit - Outdoor Nature Scavenger Hunt Card Game for Families

Our San Diego Editor, Beth Shea, recommends this fun card game to entice the kids to get off devices and get outside. It's designed for ages 3+ but it's engaging for people of all ages. The cards ask you to find specific item descriptions on your jaunt such as: "furry," "wow," "small," and "thin." You could even use it on road trips and anytime you leave the house to up the ante on any excursion.

Get yours here, $12.50.

Get all of Beth's recommendations here.

Tovolo Ice Pop Molds

Seattle Editor Allison Sutcliffe recommends this item to get you through those hot, hot months of summer. With the warmer-than-usual weather Seattle's been having, her kids have been downing homemade popsicles by the dozen to cool off. She's gotten a ton of mileage out of these BPA-free molds. The fact that she gets to control what goes into them . . .added bonus!

Get yours here, $11.99.

Find all of Allison's favorite things here.

The Nature Anywhere Window

Our DC Editor, Meghan Meyers, loves this pick for bringing a little bit of nature inside. The Nature Anywhere Window lets you turn any room of your house into a wildlife observatory. Simply wet the suction cups and slap this bird feeder onto any glass surface; voila, instant home viewing! It took the birds in her hood a few days to feel comfortable eating at eye level, but they soon learned that her family was harmless. They even got two different bird nests in their backyard!

Buy yours here, $28.90.

Find all of Meghan's recs here.

—Kate Loweth

Featured photo: iStock

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There’s Some Serious Stargazing in July, with the Black Supermoon & Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower

by Erica LoopJuly 26, 2019

Look up! There’s plenty of nighttime viewing for junior astronomers this July, and we’ve got the scoop on all the summer stargazing fun.

July has two new moons—and one of them is a “black moon.” So what exactly is a black moon? Even though the name sounds ominous, it’s really pretty simple. When two new moons happen in one month, the second is called a black moon. For those of us in North America, that happens on Wednesday, Jul. 31.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NASA Solar System Exploration (@nasasolarsystem)

Not only is this month’s black moon a special treat (it happens once every 32 months), but it’s also a supermoon. This means the moon is near the closest point to our planet it gets on its Earth orbit, but sadly, we can’t view the awesomely illuminated surface. The new moon (black moon, that is) will line up between the Earth and the sun. With the sun’s rays shining on the opposite (far) side of the moon, we won’t have a view of the super sight.

But the black supermoon isn’t the only celestial event to see this summer. From Jul. 12 through Aug. 23 you can catch a view of the Delta Aquariids meteor shower, with its peak on Sunday, Jul. 28.

Your best chance at getting a prime view of the show is in late July/early August, during the second new moon. With the moon’s light out of the way, you could see as many as 20 meteors per hour, according to NASA!

Just head outside, preferably after midnight and away from street lights, and look halfway between the horizon line and the zenith.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Neale LaSalle via Pexels

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10 Ways to Spend More Time Together This Summer

by Jennifer Massoni PardiniJuly 4, 2018

Quality (summer)time isn’t just about camps and popsicles. When it comes to spending time together as a family, we thought up 10 summer family activities to get you logging serious togetherness and serious fun. So grab the sunscreen and read on for inspiring ways to bond all summer long.

Take In the Great Outdoors

Pexels via Pixabay

Now that it stays light out well into the evening, there’s even more time to spend outdoors after camp, work or other summertime activities. So commit to an after-dinner stroll once a week or use the weekend to go exploring. Best part? No matter where you live, awesome national parks are within reach. You can skip the summer crowds with our list of under-the-radar national parks in every state!

See Stars and (S')More

Allison Sutcliffe

When the sun does set, and those stars come out, turn off the TV and head into the backyard or out to the front stoop for some stargazing. If you want to go all out with forecasts, gear and snacks (even more than s’mores!), plan a complete astrological adventure with our how-to-stargaze guide. If you like your stars with a splash of spontaneity, give one of these interstellar apps a go.

Dive Into Major Fun

Great Wolf Lodge

From north to south and east to west, nothing says summer quite like a dive into a refreshing swimming pool. So be sure to get the whole family splashing about. If the kids are water safe, spring for passes to a community pool this, hit up a local splash pad with tots of any age, or check out one of the awesome new water resorts opening across the country this summer.

Gather Round for Family Story Time

dassel via Pixabay

Who doesn’t love a good story? Taking the time to bond over books gives everyone in the family a chance to listen (and read, depending on age level) and compare takeaways afterward. Talking about what we read is a great jump on reading comprehension, too. For a whole summer’s worth of inspiration, check out our list of 100 best books to read before the kids turn 12.

Plan a Picnic

Bill Dickinson via flickr

Whether you spread out a blanket in the backyard, load up for a table spread at a local park or playground, or invite the neighbors over for a full-on picnic party, a picnic is a fun way to shake up mealtime with al fresco dining. It’s a novel way to have the kids help out too, from prepping lunch to packing up the basket to picking that perfect spot in the sun or shade.

Fire Up Family Game Night

Yeti in My Spaghetti

Raising little competitive spirits? Put them to fun family use with a weekly game night. For preschool players, go for Go Fish, Guess Who, or classic Candyland. For older gamers, get out Otrio or one the many Monopolies now available. Our roundup of the best board games for every age and stage also promises to get everyone participating.

Find a Fair or Festival

Vermont Festival of Foods

Is it even summertime if you don’t hit up a carnival, county fair or street fest? This is the season of hayrides and Ferris wheels, cotton candy and ring toss, movies or concerts in the park and prizes and laughs galore. If you’re looking for summer festivals that are a little off the beaten path, we have you covered. And be sure to check out one of our local or national Red Tricycle guides for the kind of summer fun the kids will be sure to remember.

Try Something New

Great Sand Dunes National Park via flickr

Everything’s more fun if you’re not the only first timer, so work in bonding time by taking a family vote and trying something brand new. Take up rock climbing or dune surfing. Learn about flora and fauna at a local nature center. Fearless fliers may even fancy aerial trapeze. Who knows, by the end of summer you or the kids may just have a new hobby or passion to pursue throughout the year. If you need ideas, we found something fun to try in every state.

Make Meals a Priority

monkeybusiness via iStock

If summer feels just as busy as the rest of the year, you can still commit to a family meal as often as you can, especially when summertime cooking can be as easy as quick pasta, fresh salads or throwing something on the grill. In the spirit of gathering around the table, we have mealtime tips to share that sound good year round.

— Jennifer Massoni Pardini

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Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star: The Best Spots for Stargazing

by Kate LowethJune 6, 2017

2017 is a big year for those looking skyward, with a total solar eclipse scheduled to cross the U.S. on August 21st. Gear up for that big day by getting the kids interested in all things beyond our atmosphere. From museums to planetariums to gatherings of astronomy buffs, there are tons of opportunities to encourage your kids’ cosmic curiosity. Read on to see what’s available near you!

Photo: Chabot Space and Science Center

East Bay

Chabot Space and Science Center
The Chabot boasts three powerful telescopes allowing 180 degree access to the sky above. Two planetarium shows are included with each general admission to the center. Daytime viewing on the observatory deck happens on Saturdays and Sundays with volunteers available to point out the sun, moon or Venus. On Friday and Saturday evenings after the sky goes dark, visitors have complimentary admission to the observatory deck to access the telescopes.

10000 Skyline Boulevard
Oakland, Ca
Online: chabotspace.org

Lawrence Hall of Science Planetarium
A visit to the Lawrence Hall of Science is incomplete without a stop at the planetarium. Offering six interactive shows from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., kids can learn how NASA’s Kepler space telescope discovered thousands of planets orbiting other stars or how astronomers measure stars and galaxies without ever going out into space. Planetarium tickets are $4 in addition to the admission price.

One Centennial Drive
Berkeley, Ca
Online: lawrencehallofscience.org

Photo: Hiller Aviation Museum

Peninsula

Starlab Planetarium at the Hiller Aviation Museum
Crawl through a short tunnel to enter the Starlab Planetarium and you will be rewarded with glittering stars projected overhead. Learn about the constellations, planets and more in this one-of-a-kind show. Ideal for kids 5 and up, tickets for the shows can be purchased at the museum gift shop on the day of the show. Check the online calendar for showtimes.

Hiller Aviation Museum
601 Skyway Road
San Carlos, Ca
Online: hiller.org/event/starlab

Photo: Chabot Space and Science Center

South Bay

Montalvo Arts Center
Once per summer, Montalvo welcomes astronomers of all ages to join them for their Starry, Starry Night program. Stargaze through telescopes set up on the Great Lawn, engage in cosmic art-making activities and be transported by star-inspired stories and poetry. After enjoying the evening’s festivities, you are welcome to roll out your sleeping bags and sleep under the stars. The event concludes the next day with a pancake breakfast.

Date: June 22-23
Price: $50/adult, $25/child
15400 Montalvo Road
Saratoga, Ca
Online: montalvoarts.org

DeAnza College Fujistu Plantetarium
Head to DeAnza College for some out of this world fun! In September through March they offer afternoon programs on Saturdays and Sundays for families. Programs like “The Magic Tree House” teach kids about the night sky with presenters available to answer questions. Special for 2017, learn about the eclipse this summer by attending one of their showing of “Totality” – an examination of how and why eclipses occur. (Showing on June 24, July 15, July 29, August 5 and August 12.)

21250 Stevens Creek Boulevard
Cupertino, Ca
Online: planetarium.deanza.edu

San Jose Astronomical Association
Join the San Jose Astronomical Association as members set up telescopes and share their knowledge with the public at their free In-Town Star Parties and special events like the Mercury Transit. All ages welcome. If you have your own telescope, arrive early to set it up. An hour before the star party, there is an astronomy talk which is also open to the public.

Various locations in and near San Jose
Online: sjaa.net

Halley Hill Observatory
The Halls Valley Astronomical Group hosts monthly star parties at Joseph D. Grant County Park in the hills east of San Jose. Telescope docents are present to point out stars, planets and more to kids and parents alike. Book a nearby campsite for the weekend to get the full experience and avoid having to drive down the windy road at night. Looking for more nearby stargazing adventures? Check out the Lick Observatory on top of Mt. Hamilton for their stargazing events.

Joseph D. Grant Park
18405 Mt. Hamilton Road
San Jose, Ca
Online: hallsvalley.org/starparties

Photo: John Belew via San Francisco Amateur Astronomers

Marin

Astronomy Nights on Mt. Tamalpais
Mt. Tam is the site of a gathering of the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers group where the public can hear a lecture on topics like how black holes can blow bubbles or how astronomers measure distances to far-away galaxies. Lectures are followed by public viewing through the telescopes. The group meets monthly from April through October.

Mt. Tamalpais
3801 Panoramic Highway
Mill Valley, Ca
Online: sfaa-astronomy.org

Photo: SFSU Observatory

San Francisco

City Star Party and Telescope Night
Join the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers group and other star-lovers at this monthly gathering in San Francisco. Monthly location varies so check the schedule for this month’s spot. New members who bring their telescopes will have access to the collective wisdom of more-experienced members to answer scope questions. Or wait in line to see if you can see the rings of Saturn in one of the group’s telescopes that are set up for public viewing.

Online: sfaa-astronomy.org

San Francisco State University Observatory
During the fall and spring semesters, the public is invited to join students and professors for viewings on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights at the SFSU Observatory. The observatory houses four telescopes and knowledgeable folks are always present to answer questions.

1600 Holloway Avenue
San Francisco, Ca
Online: physics.sfsu.edu

Morrison Planetarium at the California Academy of Sciences
The 75-foot dome at the Morrison Planetarium provides a virtual view of the cosmos that precisely mirrors its real-world counterpart. See traditional star programs, special films and even live broadcasts from Academy scientists in the field. Tickets to the planetarium are included with admission.

California Academy of Sciences
Golden Gate Park
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA
Online: calacademy.org

Photo: Kate Loweth

Worth the Drive

Fremont Peak Observatory
Looking for a stargazing road trip? Head down to San Juan Bautista and then drive up to the Fremont Peak Observatory. Every Saturday from April through October when there is not a full moon, the observatory is open to the public with a discussion followed by viewing through the 30-inch diameter “Challenger” Newtonian telescope. Daytime solar programs are held on certain days from 2-5 p.m. where special filters are used to see details on the surface of the sun. Make a night of it with camping at Fremont Peak State Park and walk over to the observatory for the show.

San Juan Bautista, Ca
Online: fpoa.net

Where do you take your stargazers for some telescope time? Let us know below!

-Kate Loweth

Put a Twinkle in Their Eye at These 7 Spots for Stargazing

by Cherie GoughMay 8, 2017

If your little Galileo has a twinkle in his eye over every light in the night sky, we’ve found where to go to wish upon a star. From planetarium shows and high-powered telescope viewings to a weekend of wonder camping with amateur astronomers, here are the 7 best spots to stargaze as a family.

Photo: Jake Kokot via Unsplash

See Stars in Balboa Park
Tour the incredible solar system with the Fleet’s own astronomer who narrates “The Sky Tonight” show in their beautiful theater before you head outside and stargaze with the experts. The San Diego Astronomy Association (SDAA) sets up several telescopes for free public viewing. They’ll gladly help little starlings take a peek and see what heavenly bodies they can spot. Look forward to viewing a total solar eclipse this August. Star parties happen the first Wednesday of each month on the Prado by the Fleet Science Center.

Insider’s Tip: The telescope line is shortest during the show (and it’s free). So if your kiddo won’t last the night, skip the show and head straight for the stargazing.

Showtimes: 7 and 8:15 p.m. (first Wednesday of the month; recommended for ages 5 and up)
Cost: Stargazing free; Sky Tonight show $16.95/adults; $14.95/children

Fleet Science Center
1875 El Prado
San Diego, Ca 92101
Online: rhfleet.org

Photo: Palomar College Planetarium

Behold the Night at Palomar College Planetarium
Palomar College welcomes the public every Friday night to enjoy their newly built planetarium. Two planetarium shows inspire wonder and imagination. “The Sky Tonight” is a live narrated tour of the current sky, highlighting the moon, planets and many constellations and their mythology. A second full-dome feature follows (see schedule here) or you may wander outside to search the night sky through large tracking telescopes that are set-up for free public viewing at dusk.

Insider’s Tips: Buy tickets online (shows can sell out). Each show requires a separate ticket. Arrive early because late seating is not allowed! Kids must be 5 to attend the planetarium shows; no exceptions.

Showtimes: The Sky Tonight 7 p.m.; Full Dome Feature film (varies) 8:15 p.m.
Cost: $6/adults; $4/children

Palomar College Planetarium
Comet Circle East
San Marcos, Ca 92069
Online: palomar.edu/planetarium

Photo: Bruno Sanchez-Andrade via Flickr

Star Light, Star Bright: San Diego Astronomy Association
If your family is ready for an outdoor adventure, bundle up and head to one of these free, fun events further from city lights that will allow for a more authentic, clearer view of the sky. Local astronomers from SDAA share their knowledge of the heavens with curious stargazers while using high-powered telescopes. Wear warm clothes and bring your own telescope or binoculars if you’d like. The constellations change with the seasons, so there is always something new to explore. Viewing begins at dusk.

Insider’s Tips: Lasers and flashlights interfere with viewing. Bring a small red flashlight instead if you have one. No food or drinks are allowed in observation areas near telescopes.

East County
When: Second Friday of each month
Where: Kumeyaay Lake Campground Parking Lot
Two Father Junipero Serra Trail
San Diego, Ca 92119
Online: mtrp.org/campground

North County
When: Third Friday, every other month
Where: Goodan Ranch/Sycamore Canyon Reserve
The site is located at the east end of Poway, offering a pretty dark sky with an amazing panoramic view of the city below.
Online: sdparks.org/content/sdparks/en/park-pages/GoodanSycamore.html

When: Fourth Friday of each month
Where: Mission Trails Regional Park West Sycamore located in Scripps Ranch
Online: mtrp.org/west_sycamore

Photo: Cherie Gough

Camp With Astronomers on Palomar Mountain
Dust off the tent and enjoy an exciting camping weekend exploring the stars with high-powered telescopes provided by local amateur astronomers. The windy drive that climbs the 4800 feet to the camp is an adventure in itself. Held one weekend a month at Palomar Mountain’s Observatory Campground April through October, this family-friendly event includes great interpretive talks on Saturday night to help you understand what you’re seeing up above. During the day, hike the 2 mile trail to the Palomar Observatory where you’ll be in awe of spectacular views. Explore the visitor’s center or take a guided tour, but make sure little scientists are aware that the telescope here is for researchers only.

Insider’s Tips: Many campsites run adjacent to a stream. Bug repellant is a must. Cell phone service is iffy at best.
Online: nanzscience.com/explore/index.html

Photo: Gemelitas via Tripadvisor

Out-of-This-World Night in Julian
Astronomer and owner of Observer’s Inn, Michael Leigh, takes visitors on a journey through the cosmos five nights a week. Using a laser, he clearly points out the visible constellations. Leigh makes the evening tour interesting for all; visitors range from young children to NASA scientists. Kids will gaze in wonder at sample pieces of meteorites and rocks from Mars. Be sure to check out the stars and planets for yourself using his research level telescopes on the observation deck. Observers’ Inn is also a lovely B&B, mostly serving as a romantic getaway. Drive up in the evening or stay at a nearby campground with the kiddos.

Sky tours begin around 8:30 p.m.. Closed Sun. and Th. Call for a reservation.
Cost: $30/person

Observer’s Inn
3535 Highway 79
Julian, Ca 92036
760-765-0088
Online: observersinn.com

Where do you go to see stars in San Diego? Tell us in the comments.

— Cherie Gough

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