This holiday season, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is the only spot in town where kiddos can get up close and personal with real-live reindeer. The Zoo’s Reindeer Romp experience offers families a chance to get in the holiday spirit with reindeer viewing, holiday-themed arts and crafts, photos with Santa – plus festive animal enrichment activities for other animals … [Read more...]
All Aboard! Using Metrolink to Connect With Nature in Southern California
It’s pretty common knowledge that traffic here in Southern California can have its moments. In an effort to bypass some of the stress, and to help reduce our carbon footprint, we’ve started using public transit to help us reach various nature destinations. (Note: For those not familiar with public transportation in Southern California, let’s just say it has its limitations. … [Read more...]
Family Friendly Fun at Santa Monica State Beach
When I think of California State Parks, Santa Monica State Beach certainly doesn’t strike me as a typical example. Where most of the state parks we’ve visited are quiet, serene spots to enjoy nature, Santa Monica State Beach is a park of another kind altogether. Stretching some three miles and covering 245 acres of sand along the Santa Monica Bay, this iconic beach features … [Read more...]
Deep Ocean Exploration at the Aquarium of the Pacific
When I shared some of our favorite children’s books about the ocean and marine life last month, I mentioned that we have a bit of a fascination with the deep ocean and its inhabitants. The challenge is finding a place to see these critters, since they live in an extreme environment that isn’t easy to replicate at sea level. Enter the new “Ocean Exploration” program at the … [Read more...]
Best Beaches for Families in Los Angeles
We’re fortunate to live about 15 minutes from the beach in Los Angeles. During winter and spring, we spend a fair amount of time enjoying favorite beach spots and finding new ones. We love Los Angeles beaches because they offer the chance to hike, picnic and explore tide pools. These are some of the best beaches for families in Los Angeles that we’ve discovered so far. EL … [Read more...]